Verse of the Day: Romans 1:17
“For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”
The gospel reveals the righteousness of God, a profound truth that is essential for our faith. This revelation fulfils the scripture, which declares, "The just shall live by faith." But what exactly is this righteousness of God revealed by the gospel?
It is crucial to understand that the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel is not merely His holy righteousness that condemns the guilty sinner. Instead, it is the God-kind of righteousness granted to the sinner who puts their trust in Jesus Christ.
This righteousness is not about the essential righteousness of God's nature, His righteousness in fulfilling promises, or His punitive justice—though these are revealed in the gospel. It is not even the righteousness by which Christ is righteous, either as God or as Mediator. Rather, it is the righteousness Christ achieved by obeying the precepts and bearing the penalty of the law on behalf of His people. Through this righteousness, we are justified in the sight of God.
This righteousness is called "the righteousness of God" to distinguish it from the righteousness of men. It is a divine righteousness that justifies us before God, in contrast to any righteousness we might try to achieve on our own.
Consider the profound nature of the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel. How does this understanding impact your relationship with God and your daily walk of faith?
Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on the following verses:
Habakkuk 2:4; 2 Corinthians 5:12-21; Philippians 3:3-11
Prayer
Father, Help us to live by faith, trusting in the righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ. May we always remember that it is not our righteousness but Your divine righteousness that justifies us in Your sight.
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