The Righteous
Introduction:
As children of God, we understand ours is a sinful society. The
solution to our society’s problems lies not in entertainment,
pleasure, or pop psychology; but in the gospel of Jesus Christ. (Romans
1:16-17)
Since “righteousness exalts a nation; but sin is a reproach to any
people.” (Proverbs
14:34)
We need to come to an understanding of what righteousness truly is.
Body:
I.
The Meaning of Righteousness
·
What is right; justice; the act of doing what is in agreement with
God’s standards; the state of being in proper relationship with God?
·
The state of justification is due to the forgiveness of sins. (Philippians
3:9-10, Romans 5:8-9)
·
The gospel reveals how God forgives sinners and makes them
righteous. (Romans
1:16-17)
·
This righteousness is possible because of Christ. (Romans
4:25, Romans 5:18)
II.
Must Exceed that of Scribes and Pharisees
·
Matthew 5:20
·
Matthew 23
What was their righteousness like?
“Say and do not” (Matthew
23:1-4)
“Neglect parts of God’s law” (Matthew
23: 23-24)
They obeyed what they wanted, then neglected
the rest.
“Appeared holy but were corrupt.” (Matthew
23: 27-28)
·
Our righteousness must exceed theirs.
Private and public lives must be consistent. (Mark
4:22)
Faith must be accompanied by works. (James
2:14-17)
Make an effort to observe all of God’s commands. (James
2:10)
III.
Must Hunger and Thirst after Righteousness
·
Matthew 5:8
·
“Hunger and thirst” shows a strong desire. (Luke
13:23-24)
·
Declaration of Independence grants the right to the pursuit
of happiness.
·
We must have an intense longing after righteousness, passionate
concern for having a right relationship with Jehovah. (Psalm
42:1-2)
·
Long for justification that the gospel offers. Be willing to meet
the conditions necessary to obtain it.
·
“Shall be filled” implies complete satisfaction; receive what they
have hungered for.
Conclusion:
Each
of us should possess this strong, passionate desire for
righteousness.
Bobby Stafford
January 20, 2013
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