By Josanna Elizabeth.
True righteousness is not based on what we can do to earn the favor of God, but instead on placing our faith in what Christ has done.
What is this faith?
Turning our attention to the Book of Romans, to provide some context, Paul is writing this letter to the church in Rome, which he has never visited but wishes to do so, as stated in the first chapter.
Paul was writing to people he didn't know but regarded to be his brothers and sisters in Christ. As we can see, Romans is a book of practical exhortation rather than doctrine. The gospel of Jesus Christ is more than just facts to believe in; it is also a way of life.
In the fourth chapter, Paul clearly states that we are justified through faith, citing Abraham as an example. The promise granted to Abraham was based on the righteousness of faith, which was founded on grace rather than the law.
Romans 4:1-3 ESV What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.”
Have you ever wondered why Abraham is known as the "Father of Faith"? The present chapter discusses Abraham's exemplary faith in God to the point where, despite the fact that the promise God gave to him seemed absurd given his elderly body and Sarah's barren womb, Abraham decided to believe and was fully convinced that God was capable of fulfilling His word. Most often, the roots of our unbelief are based on not knowing who our father is.
Consider this example, if you don't spend enough time with your friend, you won't know his or her characteristics or what he or she can accomplish for you. You simply cannot trust them if you do not know them.
Similarly, if you don't spend enough time with the Lord, worshipping Him and reading His word, you'll never be able to convince yourself that our God is capable of doing everything He has promised.
Romans 4:20-23 ESV No unbelief made him waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. That is why his faith was “counted to him as righteousness.” But the words “it was counted to him” were not written for his sake alone, but for ours also.
Hebrews 12:2 says Jesus is the founder and perfecter of our faith. Therefore our righteousness in Christ is not earned through our own efforts, but through faith in what Christ has done for us. This faith, exemplified by Abraham, is a deep trust in God's promises, even when they seem impossible. By spending time with God and knowing Him intimately, we grow in our faith and understanding of His character, enabling us to trust Him fully. Ultimately, Jesus is the one who initiates and strengthens our faith, leading us to righteousness through Him.
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