Righteousness, in the context of Christian theology, refers to the state of moral purity or being right with God. For the saints, or believers in Christ, righteousness is not achieved through their own efforts but is imparted to them through their faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness is a central theme in the New Testament and is foundational to the believer's identity and relationship with God.

Imputed Righteousness through Faith

The concept of imputed righteousness is pivotal in understanding how saints possess righteousness in Christ. The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, articulates this doctrine clearly: "This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no distinction" (Romans 3:22). Here, Paul emphasizes that righteousness is a gift from God, granted to all who place their faith in Jesus, irrespective of their background or previous life.

Christ as Our Righteousness

Christ Himself is the embodiment of righteousness, and through union with Him, believers are made righteous. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, Paul writes, "It is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God: our righteousness, holiness, and redemption" . This passage underscores that Christ is not only the source of wisdom but also the very righteousness that believers possess. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus fulfilled the righteous requirements of the law, and His righteousness is credited to those who are in Him.

The New Creation and Righteous Living

The transformation that occurs in believers is described as becoming a new creation. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul states, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come" . This new creation is characterized by a life that reflects the righteousness of Christ. While the righteousness of the saints is primarily a legal standing before God, it also manifests in righteous living, as believers are called to walk in a manner worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in the believer's experience of righteousness. The Spirit empowers and guides the saints to live according to God's will. In Galatians 5:16, Paul exhorts, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh" . The indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit enables believers to produce the fruit of righteousness, which is evidence of their new life in Christ.

Eternal Security in Righteousness

The righteousness that saints have in Christ assures them of their eternal security. Romans 8:1 declares, "Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus" . This assurance is rooted in the finished work of Christ, who has fully satisfied the demands of God's justice. As a result, believers can have confidence in their standing before God, knowing that their righteousness is not based on their own merit but on the perfect righteousness of Christ.

In summary, the righteousness that saints have in Christ is a profound and transformative reality. It is a gift of grace, received through faith, and it defines the believer's identity and destiny. Through Christ, believers are declared righteous, empowered to live righteously, and assured of their eternal inheritance.Isaiah 45:24
Surely, shall one say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Isaiah 54:17
No weapon that is formed against you shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against you in judgment you shall condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, said the LORD.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Corinthians 5:21
For he has made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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