Topical Encyclopedia The concept of righteousness in relation to God is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the character of God and His expectations for humanity. Righteousness, in its essence, is the quality of being morally right or justifiable, and in the biblical context, it is closely tied to God's nature and His covenantal relationship with His people.God's Righteousness God is depicted as the ultimate standard of righteousness. His actions, decrees, and judgments are inherently righteous, as they are rooted in His holy and perfect nature. In Psalm 11:7 , it is stated, "For the LORD is righteous; He loves justice. The upright will see His face." This verse underscores that God's righteousness is not only an attribute but also a guiding principle for His interactions with the world. Human Righteousness and God Human righteousness is often portrayed as a reflection of God's righteousness. In Genesis 15:6 , we read about Abraham: "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness." This passage highlights the foundational biblical principle that righteousness is attributed to individuals through faith in God. It is not merely about adherence to the law but involves a relational trust in God's promises. Righteousness and the Law The Law given to Israel was a means by which God's people could live righteously. Deuteronomy 6:25 states, "And if we are careful to observe every one of these commandments before the LORD our God, as He has commanded us, then that will be our righteousness." Here, righteousness is linked to obedience to God's commandments, reflecting His holy standards. Righteousness and Salvation In the New Testament, the relationship between righteousness and God is further developed through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Romans 3:22 declares, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." This verse emphasizes that righteousness is a gift from God, made available through faith in Christ, rather than through human effort alone. Righteousness and Sanctification The process of sanctification, or becoming more like Christ, is also tied to righteousness. Philippians 1:11 speaks of being "filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God." This indicates that as believers grow in their relationship with God, they are increasingly conformed to His righteous character. Righteousness and Justice God's righteousness is inseparable from His justice. Isaiah 61:8 proclaims, "For I, the LORD, love justice; I hate robbery and wrongdoing. In My faithfulness, I will give them their recompense and make an everlasting covenant with them." This passage reveals that God's righteous nature demands justice, and He acts to uphold it in the world. Righteousness and the Kingdom of God The Kingdom of God is characterized by righteousness. Matthew 6:33 instructs, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." This directive calls believers to prioritize God's righteous rule in their lives, trusting that He will provide for their needs. In summary, righteousness in relation to God encompasses His inherent nature, His expectations for humanity, and the means by which humans can attain righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a dynamic and relational concept that permeates the biblical narrative, reflecting God's desire for a just and holy people. Nave's Topical Index Leviticus 20:24-26But I have said to you, You shall inherit their land, and I will give it to you to possess it, a land that flows with milk and honey: I am the LORD your God, which have separated you from other people. Nave's Topical Index Library Sanctification and Justification (Continued). Chapter v. "We have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Righteous. ... God's Requirements and God's Gift The Holy Spirit in Relation to Prophecy. ... 1 John ii. 29 God's Covenant with Abram Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners Or, a Brief Relation of ... How to Dwell in the Fire of God The Christian's God Resources What does it mean to be overrighteous and overwise (Ecclesiastes 7:16)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is justification? What does it mean to be justified? | GotQuestions.org Why did Abraham bargain with God in regard to Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18)? | GotQuestions.org Righteous: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Righteous: Calves of the Stall Righteous: Members of the Body Righteous: Promises To, Expressed or Implied Righteous: Relation of, to God Righteous: Righteous and Wicked, Circumstances of, Contrasted Righteous: Strangers and Pilgrims Righteous: Trees Planted Beside Rivers Righteous: Unity of, With Christ Righteous: Vessels of Gold and Silver Righteous: Willows by the Water Courses Select Readings: The Righteous and the Wicked in Contrast Related Terms |