Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of the righteousness of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His perfect moral nature and His commitment to justice and truth. God's righteousness is not merely an abstract attribute but is actively demonstrated through His testimonies, which are His declarations, laws, and actions as recorded in Scripture. These testimonies reveal His character and His expectations for humanity.
Biblical FoundationThe righteousness of God is foundational to His nature and is consistently affirmed throughout the Bible. In
Psalm 119:137, the psalmist declares, "Righteous are You, O LORD, and upright are Your judgments." This verse underscores the inherent righteousness of God and the uprightness of His decrees. God's testimonies are an extension of His righteous character, providing a standard for human conduct and a reflection of His divine will.
God's Testimonies as Expressions of Righteousness1.
The Law: The Mosaic Law, given to Israel, is a primary expression of God's righteousness. It serves as a guide for living in a manner that reflects His holiness. In
Deuteronomy 4:8, Moses states, "And what nation is so great as to have righteous statutes and ordinances like this entire law I set before you today?" The law is not only a set of rules but a testimony to God's righteous standards.
2.
The Prophets: Through the prophets, God communicated His righteous judgments and expectations. The prophetic writings often call Israel back to righteousness, emphasizing God's desire for justice and mercy. In
Isaiah 51:6, God declares, "My righteousness will never fail." The prophets serve as a testament to God's unwavering commitment to righteousness.
3.
The Psalms: The Psalms frequently celebrate God's righteousness and His testimonies.
Psalm 19:9 states, "The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever; the judgments of the LORD are true, being altogether righteous." The psalmist acknowledges that God's testimonies are a source of wisdom and guidance, reflecting His righteous nature.
4.
The New Testament: In the New Testament, the righteousness of God is revealed through Jesus Christ, who embodies God's perfect righteousness.
Romans 3:21-22 proclaims, "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." Christ's life and teachings are the ultimate testimony of God's righteousness, offering salvation and a model for righteous living.
Implications for BelieversThe righteousness of God, as exhibited in His testimonies, has profound implications for believers. It calls them to live in accordance with His standards, striving for holiness and justice in their own lives. In
2 Timothy 3:16-17, Paul writes, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, fully equipped for every good work." Believers are encouraged to study and apply God's testimonies, allowing His righteousness to shape their character and actions.
ConclusionThe righteousness of God, as exhibited in His testimonies, is a testament to His perfect moral nature and His desire for justice and truth. Through His laws, prophetic messages, and the life of Jesus Christ, God reveals His righteous standards and calls His people to reflect His character in their lives.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Psalm 119:138,144Your testimonies that you have commanded are righteous and very faithful.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
Psalm XXV.
... Whereof He hath exhibited the one in forgiving sins, the ... the two advents of the Son
of God, the one ... whereby I never, in the boast of righteousness, break off ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/augustine/exposition on the book of psalms/psalm xxv.htm
Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who ...
... The extraordinary care exhibited in the selection of ... beautiful Canadian regions,
where by God's blessing they may grow up 'trees of righteousness, the planting ...
/.../lowe/gods answers/chapter ix questions and answerssorrowful.htm
Articles vii and viii: of the Church.
... in this way [that it is such pomp, as is exhibited in the ... namely, whether human
traditions be acts of worship necessary for righteousness before God. ...
/.../melanchthon/the apology of the augsburg confession/part 11 articles vii and.htm
The Doctrine of the Apostolic Church
... 193:10] "the End of the Law for righteousness to every ... daily be praised; [194:17]
and He is exhibited as an ... Jesus is the Lord," [195:2] and "God blessed for ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/killen/the ancient church/chapter ii the doctrine of.htm
Different Degrees of Knowledge.
... reign" writes David, "because of truth, and meekness, and righteousness; and thy ...
For the Son of God is the person of the truth which is exhibited; and the ...
/.../the stromata or miscellanies/chapter xv different degrees of knowledge.htm
The Master's Profession --The Disciple's Pursuit
... and our example, we are encouraged to emulate the high calling and the dutiful
obedience he so perfectly exhibited. ... The righteousness of God comes like a ...
/.../the masters professionthe disciples pursuit.htm
Nature of Covenanting.
... the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with ... proved that every covenant with
God is ratified ... Though the oath is frequently exhibited without explicit ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter i nature of covenanting.htm
Covenant Duties.
... behalf of the interests of truth and righteousness, devolves on ... him a glorious
reward;"as the God of grace ... his people;"the Holy Ghost is exhibited as given ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter iv covenant duties.htm
His First Residence in Germany.
... to them the word of life, is exhibited in several ... We may truly say with the apostle
that God is no ... live to see the glorious day when righteousness shall cover ...
/.../chapter iv his first residence.htm
Of Faith. The Definition of It. Its Peculiar Properties.
... that believeth;" that "therein is the righteousness of God ... Believers, indeed, ought
to recognize God as the judge ... properly look, since he is exhibited to their ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 2 of faith the.htm
Resources
What is the fruit of righteousness in Philippians 1:11? | GotQuestions.orgWhy does Christ's righteousness need to be imputed to us? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the sun of righteousness (Malachi 4:2)? | GotQuestions.orgRighteousness: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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