The Righteousness of God

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
 — 2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

Two things are necessary to become righteous, both of which come from God: reconciliation and regeneration. We cannot become righteous by our own doing. Why? Because we are sinners in need of reconciliation to God. Reconciliation restores our relationship with God. Moreover, regeneration transforms our hearts. It enables us to live in alignment with His will and reflect the righteousness of His nature, embodying the righteousness of God in Christ.

Reconciled by Grace

Reconciliation with God is possible only through His grace, not by our own merit. The cross stands as the ultimate demonstration of God’s love (John 3:16). It also represents the deep love of Christ, who calls believers His friends (John 15:13). Jesus, being sinless, affirms that He did not sin (Hebrews 4:15). 1 John 3:5 states that in Him was no sin. Jesus willingly endured a painful death for us. On the cross, He took upon Himself the sins of the entire world. This sacrifice allows all who trust in Him to die to sin and live for righteousness. We cannot achieve righteousness by our human effort; it is a gift from God. This gift allows us to reflect His righteousness and comprehend the true righteousness of God.

If Jesus did not sin, how did He become sin? He became sin by receiving our sins. In the same way, we do not become righteous through our actions; we receive righteousness by placing faith in what Jesus accomplished at Calvary. Humanity’s condemnation began in the Garden of Eden with Adam’s disobedience. Just as God sentenced humanity to death because of Adam, so through one man’s obedience—Jesus—reconciliation with God becomes possible. This allows us to embody the righteousness that only God can provide, as explained in Romans 5:19.

Holiness in Christ

You are God’s righteousness. Because you have been reconciled and made righteous through Christ, you can walk confidently in the identity God has given you. Your worth and acceptance are grounded in His grace, not your past failures. Having received this righteousness as a gift, let your thoughts and actions reflect the transformation God has brought about in your life, showcasing the righteousness God instills. Remember, the power of Christ in you enables you to live victoriously. You are no longer bound by condemnation but empowered to pursue a life that honors Him. Allow His truth to shape your perspective, so that you see yourself as God sees you—redeemed, beloved, and set apart for His purpose in righteousness.

Lord Jesus, I am indeed grateful that You became sin for me, so that I can become the righteousness of God. I am righteous not because of what I do, but because of what I believe.