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"The righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ"

Text: Romans 3:22

THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD

The doctrine of the righteousness of God must be carefully understood. For this reason, let us trace Paul’s mention of this theme.

1. The Just shall live by faith (Romans 1:17)

Paul borrowed this phrase from the writings of the prophet Habakkuk (Habakkuk 2:4). What did he mean by this phrase?

a) This concept is to be found in the Gospel of Christ (Romans 1:16a).

b) In this concept is further explained “the power of God to salvation” (Romans 1:16b).

c) Whether Jew or Greek (Gentile), all must believe in the Gospel of Christ.

i) Wherein one obtains salvation.

ii) Wherein one finds justification.

iii) Subsequently, he lives by this faith in God.

2. Attested to by the Law and the Prophets

Paul cited the prophet Habakkuk for good reason:-

a) A prophet’s writing may be understood in the following ways:-

i) He wrote with prophetic discernment.

ii) His understanding came from God by way of revelation.

iii) He wrote with Divine authority.

b) A prophet’s writing must be carefully and correctly interpreted.

i) Paul sought to explain what Habakkuk meant when he wrote about the just living by faith.

ii) The just is a person who has received justification from God.

iii) In this justification he has received a pardon from God; he stands as one who is declared righteous before God.

iv) This justification is made possible only when the individual exercises his faith in God. He must believe in the salvation that God offers!