Righteousness in Christ

Righteousness, as presented in the Bible, is a fundamental attribute of God's character and a standard for human conduct. In the Old Testament, righteousness is often associated with adherence to the Law and the covenantal relationship between God and His people. However, in the New Testament, righteousness takes on a more profound dimension through the person and work of Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, emphasizes that righteousness is not achieved through human effort or adherence to the Law but is a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ. In Romans 3:22, Paul writes, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction." This righteousness is imputed to believers, meaning that Christ's perfect righteousness is credited to their account, allowing them to stand justified before God.

The concept of righteousness in Christ is further elaborated in 2 Corinthians 5:21: "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." Here, the great exchange is depicted: Christ takes on the sin of humanity, and in return, believers receive His righteousness. This transformative act is central to the doctrine of justification, where believers are declared righteous by God through faith.

Peace in Christ

Peace, in the biblical context, is more than the absence of conflict; it is a state of wholeness and harmony that comes from a right relationship with God. In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word "shalom" encompasses this idea of peace, which includes prosperity, health, and completeness. In the New Testament, peace is closely linked to the person of Jesus Christ and His redemptive work.

Jesus is referred to as the "Prince of Peace" in Isaiah 9:6, and His coming is seen as the fulfillment of God's promise to bring peace to His people. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself declares, "Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled; do not be afraid" (John 14:27). This peace is not merely a temporary or external calm but an enduring inner tranquility that comes from being reconciled with God.

The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of the peace that believers have in Christ. In Romans 5:1, he writes, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is a direct result of justification and the removal of the enmity between God and humanity caused by sin. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding, as described in Philippians 4:7, which "will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

The Interconnection of Righteousness and Peace

Righteousness and peace are deeply interconnected in the Christian faith. Psalm 85:10 poetically states, "Loving devotion and faithfulness have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed." This imagery reflects the harmonious relationship between righteousness and peace that is realized in Christ. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Jesus establishes a new covenant in which believers are made righteous and, consequently, experience true peace.

In Ephesians 2:14-15, Paul explains how Christ Himself is our peace, having broken down the dividing wall of hostility and creating one new humanity. "For He Himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has torn down the dividing wall of hostility by abolishing in His flesh the law of commandments and decrees." This peace is not only personal but also communal, as it unites believers into one body, the Church.

Ultimately, righteousness and peace in Christ are integral to the believer's identity and experience. They are gifts from God, received through faith, and are essential aspects of the salvation that Christ offers to all who believe.