Righteous by default
When we come to faith in Jesus, we are made righteous. There is not other way to say it. It's not a partial righteousness or a temporary righteousness that dissolves the first time we screw up. It's whole. It's complete. It washes us clean.
I have heard it said that we are merely "sinners saved by grace" when reference to Christians. I understand what is trying to be said, but I don't think it's completely accurate or healthy. There is something subtle about the statement that I believe has some bad theology.
I think it is more accurate to say, "I WAS a sinner that
has been saved by grace."
Sure, it seem like it's just semantics, but re-examine the two statements.
One refers to the present, the other refers to a past work. I was a sinner. Now I am righteous through the complete work of the cross.
Let me be clear, it's not that we DON'T sin anymore, because we do. But the nature or soil of our lives and spirits is fully righteous. When I'm driving, i'm not a sinner, i am just driving. Every action I do is a righteous one, because it's my nature. If I was a caterpillar turned butterfly, every movement I did would be that of a butterfly.
I am righteous through Christ. I may sin, but that doesn't make me sinner. It makes me a righteous child of God who missed the mark. My nature hasn't reverted.
Father,
Help me keep centered on You. I am grateful for the love you poured into me. I am thankful for Jesus and the redemption of the cross. AMEN
Created 9 months ago
