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.