Righteousness

Romans 4:1-8

1What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has found?

2For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God.

3For what does the Scripture say? “ABRAHAM BELIEVED GOD, AND IT WAS CREDITED TO HIM AS RIGHTEOUSNESS.”

4Now to the one who works, his wage is not credited as a favor, but as what is due.

5But to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness,

6just as David also speaks of the blessing on the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:

7″BLESSED ARE THOSE WHOSE LAWLESS DEEDS HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN, AND WHOSE SINS HAVE BEEN COVERED.

8″BLESSED IS THE MAN WHOSE SIN THE LORD WILL NOT TAKE INTO ACCOUNT.”

Paul continues his letter today by explaining righteousness and how it works. The verses of focus today remind us that while good works have their benefits, you still only receive what you earn. Righteousness, however, is not earned. It is simply given by God and received by man. God can forgive anybody and everybody (which he has) and any man can receive that forgiveness, thereby becoming righteous.

I like how in verse 7, a quote from David in the old testament where he says whose sins have been covered. Maybe it’s just a translation of the original text, but I find it interesting that this term “covered” is used. Can you think of anywhere else that term comes from? Often we refer to our sins being covered and washed away by the blood of Christ. I love it when God does this. He shows his consistency and plan throughout the bible since the beginning of time. I’m sure when David said that he didn’t quite realize he was pointing towards an event in the future…BUT GOD knew.

How often do we focus on earning something? Money, accreditation, applause, praise, even salvation? “if I do this, God will love me more or deem me worthy or more worthy than before.” Paul says it doesn’t work that way. Sure, doing good works in the name of the Lord is great. It enhances the kingdom. It might even lead someone else to be saved, but it does not enhance your salvation. God loves us all the same, infinitely and abundantly. So, how can he love us more or less?

What motivates you to “do good works”?

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