Righteousness, in biblical terms, refers to the state of being morally right or justifiable before God. It is a central theme in both the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the nature of God and His expectations for humanity. However, the concept that righteousness cannot be attained through the Law is a significant theological point, particularly emphasized in the New Testament.

The Law and Its Purpose

The Law, given through Moses, was a covenant between God and Israel, encompassing moral, ceremonial, and civil regulations. It was intended to guide the Israelites in living a life pleasing to God and to set them apart as His chosen people. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, elaborates on the purpose of the Law, stating that it was meant to reveal sin and lead people to Christ. In Galatians 3:24 , Paul writes, "So the law became our guardian to lead us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith."

The Inability of the Law to Impart Righteousness

Despite its divine origin, the Law was never intended to be a means of achieving righteousness. The Law's role was diagnostic, not curative; it exposed human sinfulness but could not provide the remedy. Romans 3:20 states, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin." This verse underscores the Law's function in highlighting humanity's need for a savior.

Righteousness Through Faith

The New Testament reveals that righteousness is a gift from God, attainable only through faith in Jesus Christ. This doctrine is central to the gospel message. Romans 3:21-22 declares, "But now, apart from the law, the righteousness of God has been revealed, as attested by the Law and the Prophets. And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe."

Paul further explains in Galatians 2:16 , "know that a man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have believed in Christ Jesus, that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified." This passage emphasizes that faith, not adherence to the Law, is the means by which individuals are declared righteous before God.

The Role of Grace

Grace is the unmerited favor of God, and it is through grace that believers receive righteousness. Ephesians 2:8-9 states, "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This underscores the idea that righteousness is not earned but given freely by God to those who believe.

The Fulfillment of the Law in Christ

Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of the Law, having lived a sinless life and perfectly obeyed its demands. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, He accomplished what the Law could not—providing a way for humanity to be reconciled to God. Romans 8:3-4 explains, "For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful man, as an offering for sin. He thus condemned sin in the flesh, so that the righteous standard of the law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit."

Conclusion

The biblical teaching that righteousness cannot come by the Law is foundational to understanding the gospel. It highlights the insufficiency of human effort and the necessity of divine intervention through Jesus Christ. By faith, believers receive the righteousness of God, a gift that transforms their standing before Him and empowers them to live according to His will.Galatians 2:21
I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Galatians 3:21
Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, truly righteousness should have been by the law.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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