Topical Encyclopedia
Righteousness, in the biblical context, refers to the quality of being morally right or justifiable, aligning with God's standards and commands. It is a central theme throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing a life lived in accordance with divine law and the pursuit of holiness. Those who walk in righteousness are often depicted as individuals who not only adhere to God's commandments but also embody the virtues of justice, mercy, and faithfulness.
Biblical FoundationThe concept of righteousness is deeply rooted in the Old Testament, where it is often associated with the covenant relationship between God and His people. 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 principle that righteousness is not merely about external adherence to the law but is intrinsically linked to faith and trust in God.
The Psalms frequently extol the virtues of the righteous.
Psalm 112:6 declares, "Surely he will never be shaken; the righteous man will be remembered forever." This verse underscores the enduring legacy of those who live righteously, suggesting that their impact and memory persist beyond their earthly lives.
New Testament PerspectiveIn the New Testament, righteousness takes on a more profound dimension through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus emphasizes the internalization of righteousness, moving beyond mere legalistic observance to a heartfelt commitment to God's will. In
Matthew 5:6 , Jesus states, "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." This beatitude reflects the deep longing and pursuit of righteousness that characterizes the life of a true believer.
The Apostle Paul further elaborates on righteousness in his epistles, particularly in Romans.
Romans 3:22 explains, "And this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe." Here, Paul articulates the doctrine of imputed righteousness, where believers are declared righteous through faith in Christ, not by their own works.
The Legacy of the RighteousThe Bible consistently affirms that those who walk in righteousness will be remembered and honored.
Proverbs 10:7 states, "The memory of the righteous is a blessing, but the name of the wicked will rot." This proverb contrasts the enduring honor of the righteous with the eventual obscurity of the wicked, highlighting the lasting impact of a life lived in accordance with God's principles.
The righteous are also depicted as a light to others, guiding and influencing their communities.
Matthew 5:14-16 encourages believers, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden... In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." This passage illustrates the transformative power of righteousness, as it not only shapes the individual but also serves as a testament to God's glory.
Eternal RemembranceThe promise of eternal remembrance for the righteous is not limited to earthly recognition.
Revelation 14:13 offers a glimpse into the eternal reward awaiting those who faithfully follow God's path: "Then I heard a voice from heaven say, 'Write: Blessed are the dead—those who die in the Lord from this moment on.' 'Yes,' says the Spirit, 'they will rest from their labors, for their deeds will follow them.'" This assurance of eternal rest and remembrance underscores the ultimate hope and reward for those who walk in righteousness.
In summary, righteousness is a defining characteristic of those who seek to live in alignment with God's will. The Bible assures that their legacy will endure, both in this life and in the life to come, as a testament to their faithfulness and devotion to the Lord.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Psalm 112:6Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
"But Whereunto Shall I Liken this Generation?"
... who dance at the springs of righteousness and sanctification ... saying, peace, peace,
even though ye walk in the ... They shall echo into him, who shall begin that ...
/.../binning/the works of the rev hugh binning/sermon x but whereunto shall.htm
They Shall be Called the Children of God
... do not be proud, do not love the world; Walk circumspectly' (Ephesians ... They are like
music to a sad heart. ... day for him when the sun of righteousness is eclipsed ...
/.../the beatitudes an exposition of matthew 51-12/19 they shall be called.htm
Paul a Pattern of Prayer
... Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by ... and "persevere" we shall
find that they are composed ... must be exceedingly careful in our walk and we ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/chapman/and judas iscariot/paul a pattern of prayer.htm
How Christ is to be Made Use Of, in Reference to Growing in Grace.
... the Father, even so we also should walk in newness ... and your members as instruments
of righteousness unto God ... more, that they forget any measure they have gotten ...
/.../brown/christ the way the truth and the life/chapter vii how christ is.htm
Psalm LXXXIX.
... His light thou walkest, in His righteousness thou art ... his children forsake My law,
and walk not in ... reproaches were cast against the Christians: they long were ...
/.../augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm lxxxix.htm
The First Fruits of the Spirit
... through faith in his blood," hath declared unto them "his righteousness for the ...
3.But secondly, do all they which abide "in Christ Jesus, walk not after ...
/.../wesley/sermons on several occasions/sermon 8 the first fruits.htm
The Soul Winner
... for then the outcome of that righteousness shall be fruit ... You might walk through
the streets of London and say ... friends and kinsfolk are unsaved and they may be ...
//christianbookshelf.org/spurgeon/sermons on proverbs/the soul winner.htm
Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals.
... of it, like Hezekiah, who walk before the ... of that covenant; and because of his
righteousness alone, the ... covenanted Servant, fulfilled his will, they put forth ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter xi covenanting enforced by.htm
The Two Effects of the Gospel
... thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly ... that if there are degrees in
glory, they will not ... was wise, and won many souls unto righteousness." It is ...
/.../spurgeon/spurgeons sermons volume 1 1855/the two effects of the.htm
"Ye are the Light of the World. "
... so that others may see the way and not walk in darkness. ... shall shine as the brightness
of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the ...
/...//christianbookshelf.org/moody/to the work to the work/chapter ix ye are the.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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