We have read in Scripture that ‘Abraham believed God and it was credited to him as righteousness’ – (Romans 4:3, Genesis 15:6) and that ‘he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith’ – (Romans 4:11) ‘The words “it was credited to him” were written not for him alone, but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness – for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.’ – (Romans 4:23) The Holy Spirit comes to impute this righteousness and its effects in us are as follows :
1. It gives life to our spirits: The righteousness of Christ revives our dead spirit. ‘If Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.’ – (Romans 8:10) ‘God who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions.’ – (Ephesians 2:5) Therefore, ‘count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.’ – (Romans 6:11)
2. It gives us a right standing with God – Not only have our dead spirits been revived, but now ‘with the breastplate of righteousness in place’ – (Ephesians 6:14), we need not fear the ‘accuser of the brethren, who accuses us before God day and night.’ – (Revelation 12:10) Therefore, we can ‘approach the throne of grace with confidence so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.’ – (Hebrews 4:16)
3. It guarantees us answer to prayers: Not only does the righteous have the right to come before God, but ‘the prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective’ – (James 5:16) because ‘the righteous cry out and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.’ – (Psalm 34:17) ‘For surely, O Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favour as with a shield.’ – (Psalm 5:12) Amen.
Site Title : Teaching of Christ 