The Righteousness of God in Christ Jesus
Alan Martin explains that the righteousness of God is revealed through faith in Jesus Christ, surpassing the law by imparting new life and power to believers.
This sermon delves into the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel, emphasizing that it is multifaceted and centered on faith. It explores how righteousness is not attained through keeping the law but through faith in God, as seen in the lives of various biblical figures. The sermon highlights the transformation believers experience in Christ, moving from lawlessness to living in accordance with God's will, ultimately displaying God's holiness to the world.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Introduction to the righteousness of God revealed in the gospel
- Explanation of righteousness as right standing with God
- Examples of righteous men and women in the Old Testament
-
II
- The law as a custodian and its limitations due to sin
- Paul’s teaching on faith versus law for righteousness
- The law’s purpose to lead to Christ and the new covenant
-
III
- The power of the Spirit in Christ to overcome the law of sin
- Faith establishes the law by enabling obedience through new life
- The transformation of believers into new creations in Christ
-
IV
- God’s promise through the prophets of a new covenant
- The holiness of God revealed through His people
- Living empowered by the Spirit beyond the old law
Key Quotes
“The righteousness of God is revealed in the good news of Jesus Christ.” — Alan Martin
“The law was just the custodian, the guardian, and he put his own people under the guardian until Jesus came.” — Alan Martin
“Faith doesn't nullify the law. It establishes the righteousness of the law.” — Alan Martin
Application Points
- Trust in Jesus Christ for righteousness rather than relying on law-keeping or personal effort.
- Recognize that the Holy Spirit empowers believers to live according to God's standards.
- Live as a new creation, demonstrating God's holiness to the world through transformed life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does righteousness mean in this sermon?
Righteousness is defined as being right in the sight of God, achieved through faith rather than law-keeping.
Why can't the law make someone righteous?
The law is weak because of sin in the flesh; it acts as a guardian until Christ but cannot impart life or true righteousness.
How does faith relate to the law according to Paul?
Faith does not nullify the law but establishes it by enabling believers to fulfill its righteous requirements through the Spirit.
Who were some examples of righteous people before Christ?
Examples include Abel, Noah, Abraham, Job, and others who were considered righteous because of their faith.
What changes in a person when they come to Christ?
They become a new creation with a new heart, spirit, desires, and power to live righteously through the Spirit.