Topical Encyclopedia
Righteousness, in the biblical context, is the quality of being morally right or justifiable, aligning with God's standards and commands. The Scriptures emphasize not only the personal pursuit of righteousness but also the blessedness associated with guiding others towards it. This act of leading others to righteousness is seen as a noble and rewarding endeavor in the eyes of God.
Biblical FoundationThe Bible underscores the importance and blessedness of turning others to righteousness. In the book of Daniel, it is written, "And those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever" (
Daniel 12:3). This verse highlights the eternal reward and honor bestowed upon those who guide others towards a righteous path, likening their impact to the everlasting brilliance of stars.
Role of the BelieverBelievers are called to be examples of righteousness, living lives that reflect the teachings of Christ. In doing so, they become beacons of light in a world often shrouded in darkness. Jesus Himself instructed His followers to let their light shine before others, so that they may see their good deeds and glorify the Father in heaven (
Matthew 5:16). This call to action is not merely for personal edification but serves a greater purpose in drawing others towards the truth and righteousness found in God.
The Great CommissionThe Great Commission, as recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, further emphasizes the responsibility of believers to lead others to righteousness. Jesus commanded, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you" (
Matthew 28:19-20). This directive underscores the mission of believers to spread the message of righteousness and salvation, teaching others to live according to God's will.
The Fruit of RighteousnessTurning others to righteousness is not only a command but also bears fruit that is pleasing to God. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, prays that believers may be "filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God" (
Philippians 1:11). This fruit is manifested in the lives of those who have been led to righteousness, resulting in a community that reflects God's glory.
Eternal ImpactThe impact of leading others to righteousness extends beyond this life. As noted in the book of Proverbs, "The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise" (
Proverbs 11:30). This imagery of a tree of life signifies the enduring and life-giving influence of righteousness, with the soul-winner being deemed wise for their efforts in guiding others to eternal life.
ConclusionThe blessedness of turning others to righteousness is a recurring theme throughout Scripture, highlighting the eternal rewards and divine approval associated with this noble task. Believers are encouraged to live righteously and actively engage in leading others to the truth, thereby participating in God's redemptive work and reflecting His glory in the world.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Daniel 12:3And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
Origen is the First and the Only one that Exhorts Gregory to Add ...
... that this is more profitable for blessedness, both to ... doing the worst injustice to
itself, but turning its attention ... [230] To practise righteousness after this ...
/.../argument xi origen is the first.htm
Its Basis
... Turning to her, He asked, "Woman, where are thine ... we read, "David also describeth
the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works ...
//christianbookshelf.org/pink/the doctrine of justification/4 its basis.htm
The First Ministry of the Baptist.
... Righteousness is blessedness. ... shall be peace, and the effect of righteousness quietness
and ... There must be the renunciation of sin, the definite turning to God ...
//christianbookshelf.org/meyer/john the baptist/v the first ministry of.htm
John Chapter xi. 55-57; xii
... lest any one's thoughts should be turning on the ... life and conduct, his preaching
of righteousness in word ... but had no part in the apostolic blessedness: he had ...
/.../augustine/homilies on the gospel of john/tractate l john chapter xi.htm
Of the Difference Between the Secret Friends and the Hidden Sons ...
... faith, and await God and eternal blessedness with sincere ... God because of the temporal
righteousness which they ... with diligence, and adorn our turning towards God ...
/.../john/the adornment of the spritual marriage/chapter viii of the difference.htm
On the Holy Trinity
... Chapter 8.--Turning Aside from the Image of God. ... Yet It Does Not Remember Lost
Blessedness, But Remembers God and the Rules of Righteousness. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/augustine/on the holy trinity/
'The End of the Lord'
... is experience of His nearness, and blessedness therein ... and in his longings to have
the righteousness of God ... The turning-point was not merely the confession, but ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture g/the end of the lord.htm
Light for those who Sit in Darkness
... Yet, in turning away from them, he will deal ... even as David also describeth the
blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 17 1871/light for those who sit.htm
On a Holy Martyr's Day
... slackness and want of diligence in turning aside from ... our spiritual fruitfulness
and highest blessedness do not ... for all his deeds with his own righteousness. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/tauler/the inner way/sermon xxxi on a holy.htm
Sermon on a Martyr's Day
... slackness and want of diligence in turning aside from ... our spiritual fruitfulness
and highest blessedness do not ... for all his deeds with his own righteousness. ...
/.../xxvii sermon on a martyrs.htm
Resources
What does it mean that “righteousness and peace kiss each other” in Psalm 85:10? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is righteousness? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the breastplate of righteousness (Ephesians 6:14)? | GotQuestions.orgRighteousness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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