The Righteousness of Faith

“For Moses writes about the righteousness which is of the law, ‘The man who does those things shall live by them.’ But the righteousness of faith speaks in this way, ‘Do not say in your heart, “Who will ascend into heaven?” (that is, to bring Christ down from above) or, “Who will descend into the abyss?”’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). But what does it say? ‘The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart’ (that is, the word of faith which we preach): that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” ~ Romans 10:5-9, NKJV

Paul uses the Old Testament Scriptures to show that the two paths to righteousness - law and faith - are incompatible with one another. If one hopes to live by the law he must do the things that are in the law; this kind of righteousness (which is impossible for man to achieve) is entirely works-based. The righteousness of faith, on the other hand, is entirely based on Christ. We don't have to bring Jesus down from heaven, or bring Him up from the dead. God has already done that. Righteousness is as near to us as our own mouths and hearts, because with them we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior and receive His perfect righteousness imputed to our bankrupt accounts. The law brings only shame because of our inability to fulfill it, but “Whoever believes on Him [Jesus] will not be put to shame.” (vs. 11) The righteousness He gives us is His. I'm not relying on myself for my salvation. I can't measure up; I can't not fail. But Jesus remains faithful, and He is the one who guarantees my righteousness.

By Rebecca