November 17, 2008

Righteousness Apart from Law

“But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth [as] a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.” (Romans 3:21-26 NKJV)

Paul, in the previous verses, said that no flesh could be justified by the law. Now he explains how one may be justified apart from the law. Notice he begins this section with the contrasting conjunction “but.” The contrast is between the inability of law to justify and the ability of faith in Christ to justify.

The law and the prophets spoke of this righteousness even the righteousness of God. Let’s not miss the importance of what was said. What is revealed not only concerns how we may be justified, but also how God is just. Even His righteousness is revealed in the Gospel.

How is this so? Well he passed over the sins previously committed. This would be an unjust act if it were not for a purpose. That purpose of course was to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time.

He no longer passes over sin, but lays it directly on the back of our most humble and glorious Savior, Jesus Christ the Righteous. He propitiated God the Father with His blood. Praise God for His love. Therefore, He is not only able to justify us completely, but He is also just in doing so.

Two things are very clear in this passage. God will punish sin, and the blood of Christ was and is a sufficient sacrifice. If you will trust in that propitiation, you will not be punished. However, if you continue in unbelief and treat this great sacrifice with contempt then you will bear the punishment of an eternity in hell. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

If you are sure of your salvation, then stop for a moment and contemplate how precious this gift is to you. Give a few words of thanks to God for His grace. It will humble you, and help you to walk circumspectly.

If you are not sure of your salvation, then look carefully at your life. See if you can tell what your hope is. Must you have this world’s offerings? Do the lusts of the flesh, the lusts of the eyes, and the pride of life control you? Let go of these temporary pleasures for the hope of glory. Grab hold of heaven and never let go. Put your trust in the blood of Christ and you will have treasures in heaven. Amen.