Righteousness Through Faith

But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone; As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. (Romans 9:31-33)

The theme for the entire book of Romans is righteousness by faith. In the Old Testament, righteousness was accomplished through the law. In Romans 9, Paul explained and contrasted the difference between these two journeys toward right standing.

The Apostle Paul explained that the Gentiles, who did not originally seek after righteousness, had, through their faith, received the very righteousness that the Jewish people had fervently sought. On the contrary, Israel, purposely endeavoring to follow the law in all its religious formats, stumbled at receiving the one thing that would bring them righteousness: Christ Himself.

The Messiah didn’t come like they expected Him to. He was born in a manger. He came from Nazareth.

The reason the religious elite stumbled wasn't because of a lack of knowledge about Jesus' arrival. It was because of their preconceived notions and expectations that they missed the profound truth before their eyes. They sought righteousness by following the law, focusing on the works of the law, rather than embracing the righteousness that comes by faith–the pistis, in Greek, the trust, and the confidence in Christ.

Too many Christians are fixating on the checklist of religious obligations rather than anchoring their hearts in trust in Christ. Trust Him, focus on Him, for righteousness is only through faith in Him.

Practical Application

Take time each day to read God’s Word about your identity in Christ. Make sure to highlight every time you see an “in Him” “in whom” or “in Christ” and say out loud “That’s me!” Allow His Word to shape your understanding of righteousness.

Isaiah 28:16; Romans 10:11

From Desolation to Restoration

And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of Sabaoth had left us a seed, we had been as Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha. What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith. (Romans 9:29-30)

One of God’s powerful names is Jehovah Sabaoth - it means the Lord of the angel armies. He has not only armies; He has supernatural ones that can do incredible damage.

Judgment consumed the once flourishing cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Yet, in His mercy, God left a remnant, a seed, to rise from the ashes of destruction. We know, according to Galatians 3, who that seed is: it’s Jesus!

After Paul talked about this revelation, he shared a serious question: What shall we say then? The answer is full of faith: the Gentiles became righteous because of their faith.

Those who were once outsiders, far from the covenant, now found themselves grafted into God’s amazing story of redemption.

The story suddenly shifted from desolation to restoration, and from exclusion to inclusion.

But isn’t that all our stories? Just as a seed emerged from the ruins of Sodom and Gomorrah, God's mercy plants seeds of transformation in the most desolate places of our lives through Jesus. We are evidence of His love, His power, and vessels of righteousness through faith in Him.

Practical Application

Jesus is the seed the Father planted into the earth when He was buried. When He rose from the grave, He became the Firstborn from the dead. (Colossians 1:18) Jesus’ death looked like desolation, but it was really restoration!

Galatians 3:16; Philippians 3:9

Anticipation of His Arrival

Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh. (Luke 21:26-28)

In a world full of fear and confusion, Jesus offers words of hope and assurance: He is coming.

At the end of all things, we will see the fulfillment and totality of God’s story unfold. In the first 4,000 years, the Father meticulously laid the groundwork, establishing the Word and setting the course for redemption. During this time, He anointed prophets to speak His truth by the Holy Ghost through them. Once the Word is spoken, it will come to pass and there is nothing the enemy can do about it.

After the 4,000 years were over, the next 33 years witnessed the ministry of Jesus physically on earth, infusing the world with the Word made flesh in action. And now, in this present era, we are being led, used, and filled by the Spirit of Grace, who is the Holy Ghost. He is also known as the Comforter and the Spirit of Truth.

We now sit in the preface of what the Bible calls the rapture of the church in anticipation of the promised end that God has prepared! In this waiting period, we are called to be watchful, vigilant, and prepared for the return of our Savior. While difficulty and uncertainty may surround us, we are anchored by our faith and the promises of God found in His Word.

You and I need to continue to lift up our heads in expectation for Jesus’ soon return. Just as a traveler recognizes familiar landmarks as they approach their destination, we can discern the signs of His return soon. Yes, there are challenges in our world, but as we navigate these challenges, let us do so with a heart fixed on the ultimate hope - the glorious revelation of the Son of Man.

Practical Application

It’s so easy to get caught up with what is going on in our world. Make it a priority to shift your focus from what is temporary to what is eternal. Earthly concerns are fleeting, but the return of Christ is certain. Keep your heart fixed on the anticipation of His glorious arrival.

1 John 5:7; Isaiah 25:8