A Righteousness of God Revealed Apart from the Law

Picture people who have fallen into the sea. Wherever they look, there is no boat to pull them out. Power, wealth and good deeds alike can do nothing in the face of the crashing waves but stop their mouths.

Yet, unknown to them, a rescue ship was already speeding toward the scene. The law was given so that men and women would come to see they are unable to keep it by themselves, and only after that recognition does the faith that waits for the Messiah take root. Jesus Christ is that righteousness of God, prepared before the ages began, and he saves without distinction all who have lived by faith, from the Old Testament until now.

Salvation comes not by works but by faith alone. Before the God who rescued them from death, even holding up prayer, offerings and devotion as something to boast of counts for nothing. To remember the grace of being declared righteous, giving thanks in all things and praying without ceasing: this is the life that befits God’s people.