We are to train ourselves to listening to the Words of our God by the Scripture. There are lots of people who have studied it have devoted their whole lifetime to knowing God’s Word, and have not found any end to its teaching and wisdom. God has promised to give His secret counsel to the upright, reveal hidden manna to those who overcome, give wisdom, knowledge, understanding and discernment to those who seek God with their whole heart. In 2 Tim. 3:16-17 says, "All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." Hence when some one discuss or prove certain topics from the Bible we should not be offended because we are not taking anything out of the bible and making stuff. Let Gods word find answer in every topic and in every thing in life. We will not practice sin as we once did, a transformed life gives us the ability to live what is holy and right before God. Because the world our flesh and the Devil are always in competition for our soul, trying to influence us in disobeying the ways of truth and life. What we really need is to be convicted and reproved by the word of God.( I Jn.3:9).
Some people are offended by truth because of its very nature. They will accuse you of lacking love and spiritual graces. Yet those who claim to be loving do accuse they have accused us of being unloving because we are self-centered, we can become offended by truth. We want to do things “our way,”
There are plenty of people who are offended by truth even when Jesus Christ and his disciples when they lovingly presented.
Paul tells us to rid ourselves of the bad things, and clothe ourselves in the good. There is only one true and correct interpretation. Let the Bible interpret itself to you by comparing scripture with scripture.
Similarly, you cannot ignore the sin you see in others. You must "snatch them out of the fire" (Jude 1:23). Please don't say, "It's none of my business!" when you see others in sin. Surely it is your business to "save a soul from death" (Jas 5:19-20).
It is quite impossible to live the life of a Christian and not offend someone by doing that which is right! In fact, the scriptures presume that many are going to be offended by the teaching and preaching of the gospel. Jesus offended people by telling them the truth ( Matthew 13:57, 15:12); Jesus even offended his own disciples ( John 6:61)!
Yet not once did Jesus apologize for telling the truth. In fact, in Matthew 15:12, after his disciples told him that the Pharisees had been offended by him, he said, "Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up. Let them alone: they are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch" ( Matthew 15:13-14).
The Bible is clear about the fact that when we stand for truth, we will offend people. The truth of God’s word stands as a solid rock that does not change whether times are good or times are bad
When a Christian believer does anything it should be based on scripture. His every area of life should line up with Gods word including speech. When I say that Jesus is the ONLY way, the ONLY truth and the ONLY life and that apart from knowing Jesus as God, you will not go to heaven, I am not passing judgment on those who refuse to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, but God's Word in the Bible is. This is because I am not saying something new, but just reiterating what God says through the Bible. Thus, all non-believers' arguments are with God, not me.
1 Peter 3:15-16 says that we need to prepare to give answer:But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
If we warn people about the dangers of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, drug abuse, sinful dancing, gambling, unrighteous movies, devils music and inappropriate dress or appearances that are not associated with Godliness. And if we quote the scriptures saying that Bible says it has wrong, for some Christians it may sound as argument or throwing out scriptures or even judging. The carnal Christian will never find the deeper things of God because Truth of scripture has been replaced with world philosophies and feel good messages. Rebuking a sinner, exposing corruption, correcting someone in love or disciplining ones children is not judging wrongfully. If we don't warn someone in error to turn from evil, we are partly responsible. "Ezekiel 33:8 When I say unto the wicked, O wicked man, thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand."
The disciples offended many, were put in prison and were killed for their bold testimony, but they also won many to God. When people are not walking according to truth, they will seek ways to make truth fit their foolish decisions and justify their actions. When someone teaches that we can sin because Jesus has paid for all sins, chances are that they have a sinful habit that they are clinging in to and need to justify. It is the responsibility of every teacher and preacher to uphold the doctrines of scripture as they apply it first to their own lives and then to teach others how to seek truth and apply it for themselves. It is the responsibility of every Christian to seek and know truth for themselves so that they can be thoroughly equipped for every good work and have true intimacy with God as they learn to conform to the example of Jesus Christ. Bible convicts men of their guilt and lost estate. Gods word says that scriptures are Quick and powerful for profitable both for doctrine and practice.( Hebrews 4:12 , 2 Timothy 3:16-17). Why some easily get offended?
Bible says that Ignorance of scriptures is a source of error and if are we Mere hearers of scriptures , we deceive ourselves. Matthew 22:29 says Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God
James 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
1 Corinthians 2:14-16 14 But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he who is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is rightly judged by no one. For "who has known the mind of the LORD that he may instruct Him?" But we have the mind of Christ.
1 John 2:26-27 These things I have written to you concerning those who try to deceive you. But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.
God says that we need to be equipped with wisdom from the Word of God to identify and not be led astray by false teaching and false teachers. All believers should know what the Scriptures are !
The Devil resists truth everywhere, because, as Scripture says, “…for there is no truth in him…he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44). The Devil and his demons work hard to deceive people and lead them away from God. If God says, “do it,” we ought to do it, and if God says, “don’t,” we shouldn’t. The accusation of legalism or throwing out scriptures is a phony accusation trumped up to excuse those who prefer to ignore the directives of God’s Word and live to satisfy themselves and hence becoming self righteous.
Many will be offended if you rebuke a sinner and there are many who say that we should love, love sinners; but never preach against their sins. If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God. The Bible indicates to boldly correct people in an effort to bring them to repentance. The truth convicts when we are guilty of sin. Conviction is the first step in the cycle of sanctification. Sin is the problem, guilt is the symptom. Most of us have a sin problem, not a guilt problem. Conviction is the first work of the Holy Spirit.
John 16:8 "When he [the Holy Spirit] comes, he will convict the world, and show where right and wrong and judgments lie. He will convict them of wrong..." It should not surprise us that as we follow Christ, people who want to remain in sin will start to get uncomfortable around us; that we will be accused of being "judgmental" before we have said a word, and that in general we are disliked and avoided for the sake of His name. Others will be attracted to us for this same reason. This is sure proof of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Eph 5:11,13 Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them... Everything exposed by the light becomes visible.
Peter warns: "Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live rather as slaves of God" (1Pe 2:16). Similarly, Paul warns: "You, my brothers, were called to be free, but do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather serve one another in love" (Gal 5:13).
God viewed sin so seriously that he gave his only begotten Son to make forgiveness possible (Jhn 3:16, 1Jn 1:7, 2:2). If we ever start taking sin lightly, all we have to do is look back to the suffering of our Lord Saviour jesus Christ on the cross. That will remind us of how seriously God views sin. Forgiven sinners must still bear the pain and responsibility of the temporal consequences of their sins. If we falsely represent what God requires, we not only encourage others to reject God's message, but we share in the judgment of those we have failed to convict of sin(Eze 3:18-19, Eze 3:20-21)
Some might say that Jesus Christ never hurt any ones feelings or condemned any one:The Gospel of Jesus Christ Has Always Offended the Wicked. Jesus NEVER compromised morality under the pretense of "love." Jesus was not worried about offending sinners. He stood up for what He knew was right
Here are few examples
1.In John 4:18, Jesus tells her that she is an adulterer (Matthew 5:32). Here he said this women as an adulterer.
2.In Matthew 19:21-22 : Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me." But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. Here we see that he hurts his feelings.
3. In Matthew 12:34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. Here Jesus called those religious people "evil or vipers”.
4.I n Matthew 16:23: Jesus turned and said to Peter, "Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men." Here we notice that he called his disciple “Satan”
5. In John 6:70: Then Jesus replied, "Have I not chosen you, the Twelve? Yet one of you is a devil!" Again here chosen disciple was called “devil”.
6. In Matthew 25:41: Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. Here Jesus taught that many people will one day burn in Hell.
The wicked world wants to achieve unity between the righteous and the wicked, but there can be NO unity. God never changes (Malachi 3:6). Jesus told some people that they would one day be weeping and gnashing their teeth after being cast into outer darkness (Matthew 8:12).
Apostle Paul said to the Christians at Galatia, "Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" -Galatians 4:16. The truth offends most people, but the Word of God teaches that we should LOVE THE TRUTH. "And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved." (2nd Thessalonians 2:10).
When Christians claim we should not pass judgment on another believer's actions or lifestyle, they have it dead wrong. He also tells us to make judgments concerning the morality of others: "Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs...Watch out for false prophets." Paul commands the church to make discerning judgments about morality within the Christian body: "...you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. Expel the wicked man from among you."
The basis for discerning judgment is the Word of God. If God has declared something a sin, we are not passing judgment, it is the Word of God that judges. If we find that a brother in Christ is sinning, we should reach out, according to Paul in Galations, to "restore him gently." Jesus gave an example of this with His story of the shepherd going after the lost sheep that was restored to the fold. But in the same context (Matt 18:15-17), Jesus also said that if the rebelling brother refuses to repent, then let him go--he is no longer to be considered a Christian. If you practice sin--any sin--without regret, refusing to change your behavior, then by Jesus' own words, you are a pagan--not a Christian.
Those who preach and practice holiness in and through the energy and power of the Holy Spirit will suffer at the hands of these perverters of grace. Paul says, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (11 Tim. 3:12). Peter acknowledges the same problem when he instructed the saved Jew that he "no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excesses of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries: wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you" (I Pet. 4:2-4).
Both the devil and Jesus quote scripture, but the important difference is seen in the fact that Jesus both correctly quotes and applies scripture (Matt. 4: 4, 7, 10, see Deut. 8: 3; Deut. 6: 16; and 6: 13, respectively). Jesus had a standard of authority that he both recognized and used to determine right and wrong by the word of God. He did not respond to the devil by saying, "I feel in my heart," "it is not popular," or "I simply do not agree." Jesus presented scripture and allowed the scripture to determine the right course of action. It will also be appreciated that Jesus used scripture to prove that Psalms 91: 11, 12 was being misapplied by the devil.
We should not be ashamed the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.( Romans 1:16)
Shaila Touchton's Despite of Differences, Come Unity in Jesus Christ!
Showing posts with label Righteouness. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Righteouness. Show all posts
Are you a Godly person who is suffering for doing right?
Godly people will be ridiculed by their friends and families for their Christian beliefs & teachings. They are accused and described as Paranoids, fanatics, narrow-minded, extreme, ridiculous, "sinners" & as teaching the "doctrine of devils. They endure emotional and physical pain, as they give up the things they could have in this world for the sake of Gods Kingdom.
1. The Godly people suffer for righteousness sake: The Godly suffer for many reasons, sometimes through no fault of their own .Most of the time they suffer for doing right things because we live in a fallen world where there is sexual immorality, corruption and rebellion to Gods word which is enmity with God. Persecution is not only done through violence and destruction, but also through harassment, ridicule, and being an outcast. All the Godly people have experienced persecution and ridicule when we do not do what the world does or says. Refusing to be like the world by not participating in ungodly practices has caused us to be alienated from family, friends, and co-workers. Godly people do not participate in their godless passions and activities and are different from the sinful world. When a believer is consumed with godly living, he will lose his appetite for the world's ungodly attractions.
But as Christians, you are called to be a chosen race, holy and separate to the Lord, and “in the world, but not of the world.” Paul calls you to be aliens and strangers who “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” He exhorts you, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Rom 12:1-2). As pilgrims in this world, we are not to practice what the citizens of this world do. We are to do what citizens of the kingdom of heaven are supposed to do.
2. The ungodly live in worldly desires: often live a life of worldly passions and desires, they do not believe in heaven or hell. But Peter reminds us that judgment comes for both living and dead and everyone has to give an account of themselves to God. All ungodly will be judged. All believers who are Godly will get their reward. Preaching the gospel condemns unbelievers and ungodly. Showing them our godly, obedient lives also make them see their ungodly, rebellious lives.
3. God sees when Godly people suffer: God sees all the rebellious acts caused by Ungodly unbelievers. He sees Godly believers suffering in the hands of unbelievers. Thus, those who suffer unjustly because of their faith in Christ have shown that they are willing to be done with sin by living in obedience to God, to be different, and to be set apart-even if it means persecution and ridicule.
But take comfort, Godly, unbelievers do not have the last word, for they will give account and face God’s judgment .They will face God’s severe judgment, especially those who have heard the gospel of Christ preached to them but rejected it. Preaching the gospel condemns unbelievers. Showing them our godly, obedient lives also make them see their ungodly, rebellious lives.
John says in the book of Revelation that when the people of the earth see the two witnesses-symbolizing the church-dead, they rejoice. They give gifts to one another. Because “these two prophets had been a torment to those who dwell on the earth” (Rev 11:10). How are unbelievers “tormented” by believers? When they hear Godly people tell them, “Repent and believe in the gospel of Christ!” and when they see Christians practicing a completely different life from them as “salt” and “light” to the world, they know in their hearts that they are sinners bound to eternal hell.
Sometimes unbelievers can't tolerate a righteous man or woman. A holy life irritates them to the point of aggression. A believer who suffers under such circumstances is "blessed" (1 Pet. 3:14). "Blessed" doesn't necessarily emphasize happiness or joy as much as it does the meaning of "privilege" or "honor." Elizabeth said Mary the mother of Jesus was "blessed among women" (Luke 1:42). Mary's heart was pierced with many sorrows (Luke 2:35), so that isn't a reference to general happiness. Instead, it speaks of divine favor--the privilege of giving birth to the Messiah in Mary's case. A believer has the same sense of privilege when he shares in Christ's sufferings. Perhaps Peter understood the meaning of "blessed" from our Lord's words in Matthew 5:10-12: "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me. Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great." A believer has the honor of receiving a divine, eternal reward for suffering on Christ's behalf.
4. A Godly believer is to be ready to provide an answer in all situations: A Godly Christian who can't carefully, thoughtfully, reasonably, and biblically give a clear explanation for his faith will be insecure when faced with hostility, and might be inclined to doubt his salvation. The enemy's blows will devastate those who haven't "put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation" (1 Thess. 5:8).
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
Ungodly enjoy drawing attention to a sinning Christian because they want to justify their sinful behavior. Therefore all Christians are to live above reproach so any accusation has no valid basis.
5. Scriptures says that that Godly will suffer for being Godly:
1Peter 3:17:It is better, if God should will it so; that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong."
1 Peter 4:3-4 :For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.
Psalm 34:19: A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all;
2 Corinthians 4:16-18: Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 1For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Luke 9:23: Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
2 Timothy 3:12: In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
1 Peter 4:12-13: Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Romans 8:18: I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Galations 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
1 Peter 4:15-16: But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
2 Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
Matthew 5:10-12: Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
1 Peter 3:14: But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”
1 Peter 5:10:But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
Revelation 2:10: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
6. Righteous suffer for many reasons:
1. They suffer for the glory of God: Book of Job; Isa. 48:9-11
2. They Suffer to comfort others: 2 Cor. 1:3-6
3. They Suffer to demonstrate the power of God, the provisions of grace: 2 Cor. 12:8-10
4. They Suffer from spiritual growing pains; the testing that strengthens faith: Deut. 8:1-10; James 1:1-6; 1 Pet. 1:7,8; Rom. 5:3 Faster growth means more frequent testing; there is a refining process: Job. 23:10; Isa. 1:18-27; 1 Pet. 1:7
5. They Suffering to keep down pride: 2 Cor. 12:6,7; Matt. 26:31-75 (the scattering of the disciples)
6. They Suffering to illustrate doctrine (for advanced believers: Book of Hosea
7. They Suffer by association occurs when we have some relationship with someone who is suffering: Rom. 14:7; 1 Cor. 12:26; 1 Chron. 21
8. They Suffer to show the fruit of the Spirit and the results of edification: 2 Cor. 4:6-11
9. They suffer to learn the value of doctrine: Psalm 119:65-72
10. They Suffer as a witness to Christ: 2 Tim. 2:8-12; John 15:18-21; Acts 5:40-42; 1 Cor. 4:9-16
11. They Suffer as a result of exercising a spiritual gift; illustrated by the life of the Apostle Paul
12. They suffer from involvement in spiritual battles, the angelic conflict: Eph. 3:8-13
7. Hope for the Godly: if a believer stays in fellowship with God and grows in Christ consistently, this type of suffering can be a great blessing and an opportunity to witness to other believers and to the unsaved. So no matter what you are going through, God has given you a Comforter to help you.
When Jesus was on this earth He was the Comforter, but now the Comforter is God the Holy Spirit:
Jesus said,” And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Comforter who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world at large cannot receive him, because it isn't looking for him and doesn't recognize him. But Godly people do...
No, I will not abandon you as orphans- I will come to you." (John 14:16-18).
The Godly believers will be obedient to Gods word and his commandments by being self-controlled and sober-minded, abstaining from all evil and evil addictions , loving, hospitable, and using your spiritual gifts for the building up one another. A Godly believer needs to arm himself with a trust in the power of righteousness to triumph over persecution and suffering. During times of hostility, we're to have confidence, not be in turmoil. A passion for doing good produces a pure life, which should be the goal and delight of every believer.
When we suffer for being Godly we glorify God and Christ our Lord and Savior. Our goal should be of putting Christ & His truth first in our lives shunning all evil things contrary to Gods word.
1. The Godly people suffer for righteousness sake: The Godly suffer for many reasons, sometimes through no fault of their own .Most of the time they suffer for doing right things because we live in a fallen world where there is sexual immorality, corruption and rebellion to Gods word which is enmity with God. Persecution is not only done through violence and destruction, but also through harassment, ridicule, and being an outcast. All the Godly people have experienced persecution and ridicule when we do not do what the world does or says. Refusing to be like the world by not participating in ungodly practices has caused us to be alienated from family, friends, and co-workers. Godly people do not participate in their godless passions and activities and are different from the sinful world. When a believer is consumed with godly living, he will lose his appetite for the world's ungodly attractions.
But as Christians, you are called to be a chosen race, holy and separate to the Lord, and “in the world, but not of the world.” Paul calls you to be aliens and strangers who “present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.” He exhorts you, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind” (Rom 12:1-2). As pilgrims in this world, we are not to practice what the citizens of this world do. We are to do what citizens of the kingdom of heaven are supposed to do.
2. The ungodly live in worldly desires: often live a life of worldly passions and desires, they do not believe in heaven or hell. But Peter reminds us that judgment comes for both living and dead and everyone has to give an account of themselves to God. All ungodly will be judged. All believers who are Godly will get their reward. Preaching the gospel condemns unbelievers and ungodly. Showing them our godly, obedient lives also make them see their ungodly, rebellious lives.
3. God sees when Godly people suffer: God sees all the rebellious acts caused by Ungodly unbelievers. He sees Godly believers suffering in the hands of unbelievers. Thus, those who suffer unjustly because of their faith in Christ have shown that they are willing to be done with sin by living in obedience to God, to be different, and to be set apart-even if it means persecution and ridicule.
But take comfort, Godly, unbelievers do not have the last word, for they will give account and face God’s judgment .They will face God’s severe judgment, especially those who have heard the gospel of Christ preached to them but rejected it. Preaching the gospel condemns unbelievers. Showing them our godly, obedient lives also make them see their ungodly, rebellious lives.
John says in the book of Revelation that when the people of the earth see the two witnesses-symbolizing the church-dead, they rejoice. They give gifts to one another. Because “these two prophets had been a torment to those who dwell on the earth” (Rev 11:10). How are unbelievers “tormented” by believers? When they hear Godly people tell them, “Repent and believe in the gospel of Christ!” and when they see Christians practicing a completely different life from them as “salt” and “light” to the world, they know in their hearts that they are sinners bound to eternal hell.
Sometimes unbelievers can't tolerate a righteous man or woman. A holy life irritates them to the point of aggression. A believer who suffers under such circumstances is "blessed" (1 Pet. 3:14). "Blessed" doesn't necessarily emphasize happiness or joy as much as it does the meaning of "privilege" or "honor." Elizabeth said Mary the mother of Jesus was "blessed among women" (Luke 1:42). Mary's heart was pierced with many sorrows (Luke 2:35), so that isn't a reference to general happiness. Instead, it speaks of divine favor--the privilege of giving birth to the Messiah in Mary's case. A believer has the same sense of privilege when he shares in Christ's sufferings. Perhaps Peter understood the meaning of "blessed" from our Lord's words in Matthew 5:10-12: "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me. Rejoice, and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great." A believer has the honor of receiving a divine, eternal reward for suffering on Christ's behalf.
4. A Godly believer is to be ready to provide an answer in all situations: A Godly Christian who can't carefully, thoughtfully, reasonably, and biblically give a clear explanation for his faith will be insecure when faced with hostility, and might be inclined to doubt his salvation. The enemy's blows will devastate those who haven't "put on the breastplate of faith and love, and as a helmet, the hope of salvation" (1 Thess. 5:8).
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15
Ungodly enjoy drawing attention to a sinning Christian because they want to justify their sinful behavior. Therefore all Christians are to live above reproach so any accusation has no valid basis.
5. Scriptures says that that Godly will suffer for being Godly:
1Peter 3:17:It is better, if God should will it so; that you suffer for doing what is right rather than for doing what is wrong."
1 Peter 4:3-4 :For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you.
Psalm 34:19: A righteous man may have many troubles, but the LORD delivers him from them all;
2 Corinthians 4:16-18: Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 1For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
Luke 9:23: Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.
2 Timothy 3:12: In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted.
1 Peter 4:12-13: Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed.
Romans 8:18: I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.
Galations 5:22-23: But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
1 Peter 4:15-16: But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters.Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter.
2 Timothy 1:12 For this reason I also suffer these things; nevertheless I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that He is able to keep what I have committed to Him until that Day.
Matthew 5:10-12: Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. “Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
1 Peter 3:14: But even if you should suffer for righteousness’ sake, you are blessed. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.”
1 Peter 5:10:But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
Revelation 2:10: Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
6. Righteous suffer for many reasons:
1. They suffer for the glory of God: Book of Job; Isa. 48:9-11
2. They Suffer to comfort others: 2 Cor. 1:3-6
3. They Suffer to demonstrate the power of God, the provisions of grace: 2 Cor. 12:8-10
4. They Suffer from spiritual growing pains; the testing that strengthens faith: Deut. 8:1-10; James 1:1-6; 1 Pet. 1:7,8; Rom. 5:3 Faster growth means more frequent testing; there is a refining process: Job. 23:10; Isa. 1:18-27; 1 Pet. 1:7
5. They Suffering to keep down pride: 2 Cor. 12:6,7; Matt. 26:31-75 (the scattering of the disciples)
6. They Suffering to illustrate doctrine (for advanced believers: Book of Hosea
7. They Suffer by association occurs when we have some relationship with someone who is suffering: Rom. 14:7; 1 Cor. 12:26; 1 Chron. 21
8. They Suffer to show the fruit of the Spirit and the results of edification: 2 Cor. 4:6-11
9. They suffer to learn the value of doctrine: Psalm 119:65-72
10. They Suffer as a witness to Christ: 2 Tim. 2:8-12; John 15:18-21; Acts 5:40-42; 1 Cor. 4:9-16
11. They Suffer as a result of exercising a spiritual gift; illustrated by the life of the Apostle Paul
12. They suffer from involvement in spiritual battles, the angelic conflict: Eph. 3:8-13
7. Hope for the Godly: if a believer stays in fellowship with God and grows in Christ consistently, this type of suffering can be a great blessing and an opportunity to witness to other believers and to the unsaved. So no matter what you are going through, God has given you a Comforter to help you.
When Jesus was on this earth He was the Comforter, but now the Comforter is God the Holy Spirit:
Jesus said,” And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Comforter who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world at large cannot receive him, because it isn't looking for him and doesn't recognize him. But Godly people do...
No, I will not abandon you as orphans- I will come to you." (John 14:16-18).
The Godly believers will be obedient to Gods word and his commandments by being self-controlled and sober-minded, abstaining from all evil and evil addictions , loving, hospitable, and using your spiritual gifts for the building up one another. A Godly believer needs to arm himself with a trust in the power of righteousness to triumph over persecution and suffering. During times of hostility, we're to have confidence, not be in turmoil. A passion for doing good produces a pure life, which should be the goal and delight of every believer.
When we suffer for being Godly we glorify God and Christ our Lord and Savior. Our goal should be of putting Christ & His truth first in our lives shunning all evil things contrary to Gods word.
None That Are Righteous?
There are some lukewarm Christians who defend themselves by saying “There is no one righteous, not even one” in Romans 3:10 .Here Paul was not referring to the follower of Christ, but all wicked people if they are Jew or Gentile, even the fool, who doesn’t even think there is a God. We must considered “righteous” in God’s sight and not righteous in our own sight, if we do consider righteous in our own sight it is considered unrighteous before God. A true righteous person is the one who is obedient to God’s laws, his commandments, who truly Repent from sin in his wrong thoughts, words, and actions and who has stronger Faith in God the Father and Jesus Christ His Son, our Saviour.
1) There are righteous People: A true righteous person rejoice in Christ, loves Christ,obeyes God and Christ, walks Honestly In the Spirit, Worthy of the Lord, Striving for the faith, Abstaining from all appearance of evil., Putting away all sin, Perfecting holiness, Showing a good example, Shunning the wicked, devoting themselves for god and choosing to live right in Gods eyes.
Romans 3:10 but they ignore other numerous examples of verses of actual named people who were righteous.
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. (1 Th 2:10)
This is the account of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God. (Gen 6:9)
Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. (Mat 1:19)
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. (Luke 2:25)
And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. (Mat 23:35)
And if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard) (2 Pet 2:7,8)
Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? (James 2:21)
1 Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness;
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Romans 4:6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works.
2) Self righteous is hateful to God: Self righteous people Are pure in their own eyes makes up their OWN LAWS, and ignore the laws of God, they are boastful, Unprofitable, their RIGHTEOUSNESS IS external or partial,they justify themselves and before men, they Reject the righteousness of God, Proclaim their own goodness
Luke 16:15 :He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight.
Matthew 23:25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Luke 11:42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Luke 18:11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
Proverbs 21:2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
Proverbs 30:12 There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.
Matthew 23:27-28 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
Romans 10:3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Revelation 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
According to these Scriptures, Noah, Joseph, Simeon, Abel, Zechariah, Lot and Abraham are all clearly cited as being righteous. For the Word of God reveals that God has always had his saints. He has always had a people that feared him, loved him, and kept his commandments. He has always had a people that did not break his commandments daily in thought, word, and deed: There was Job, of whom God said, "A perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil." There was Enoch who "walked with God" and "was not, for God took him." There was Zacharias and Elizabeth who "were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless." There was John the Baptist who was filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. There was Joseph who was sold into Egypt, but who loved his brethren who sold him into Egypt, and kept himself pure in the matter of Potiphar's wife. There was Daniel who was taken captive to Babylon, and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and all the holy prophets and holy apostles, and all the saints of both the Old and New Testaments. The Bible clearly teaches that God's people can and do live without sin. Christians can claim God’s perfection only through Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21). As long as our eyes stay focused on God and our savior Jesus Christ, we cannot go wrong.We must be as perfect as our Heavenly Father! (Matt. 5:48).Christians are perfect only through the one sacrifice that Jesus made. Scripture says this very clear:
"Because by one sacrifice he has MADE PERFECT FOREVER those who are being made holy." Hebrews 10:14
3) Righteous will live because of his faith: The righteousness which God requires is a righteousness that is based in faith, in believing on the Son of God and what He did at the cross for man's salvation.
For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” (Rom 1:17)
Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, “The righteous will live by faith.” (Gal 3:11)
But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him. (Heb 10:38)
See, he is puffed up; his desires are not upright—but the righteous will live by his faith (Hab 2:4)
4) We need to be good, holy and righteous for the Lord and God rewards for that:
”In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother.” (1 John 3:10)
“In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death.” (Proverbs 12:28)
“But to him who sows righteousness will be a sure reward. As righteousness leads to life, so he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death.” (Proverbs 11:18-19)
Thus says the Lord: “Keep justice, and do righteousness … blessed is the man who does this … and keeps his hand from doing any evil.” (Isaiah 56:1-2)
“The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but He loves him who follows righteousness.” (Proverbs 15:9)
“The labor of the righteous leads to life, the wages of the wicked to sin. He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, but he who refuses reproof goes astray.” (Proverbs 10:16-17)
“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” (Proverbs 21:3)
“The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” (Proverbs 20:7)
“When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Better is a little with righteousness, than vast revenues without justice.” (Proverbs 16:7-8)
“Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God.” (1 Corinthians 15:33-34)
“All unrighteousness is sin …” (1 John 5:17)
“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.” (Isaiah 1:16-17)
“Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn away from it and pass on … But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.” (Proverbs 4:14-19)
“It is an abomination for kings to commit wickedness, for a throne is established by righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:12)
5) The Bible teaches that the believers and saints can live without sin. The fear of God restrains us from sin.
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world. I John 5:4
Thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matt. 1:21
WeKnow that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. I John 5:18
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. I John 3:6.
Sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Rom. 6:14
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Jude 24, 25
Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. Romans 5:14
Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. I John 3:9
Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. Romans 6:18
And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. Exodus 20:20
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah. Psalms 4:4
By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. Proverbs 16:6
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Acts 26:18
6. Man can be Righteousness and perfect: The following verses proves that we can live perfect and Right.
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. 2 Samuel 22:33
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48
If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Matthew 19:21
Son of man, take up a lament concerning the king of Tyre and say to him: ' This is what the Sovereign LORD says: " ' You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. Ezekiel 28:12
But when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 1 Corinthians 13:10
Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. Corinthians 13:11
Because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Hebrews 10:14
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.2 Timothy 3:16-17
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:14
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10
For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it. Proverbs 2:21
You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness Rom. 6:18
The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. Isaiah 32:17
7. Self righteous are Counterfeit Christians: Self righteous people don’t genuinely hate sin, they look saved, talks saved, act liked saved, but they are not saved and aren’t truly sorry for any sin; they’re merely sorry because God is going to punish them and rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends. They do not want to be rejected, nor do they want to make people uncomfortable by talking about private issues like religion. They do not rebuke or correct the sinner, infact they justify themselves by saying we are all sinners, they compromise with the worldly standards ,they say we are living right according to our heart or our feelings, we are created differently, has different cultures and hence has different opinions, thereby ignoring Gods opinion and Gods ways and Gods culture. Matthew 10:32-33.
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men ' s bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. ( Matthew 23:27-28)
8) Aim perfect, be Perfect: Some men always defend themselves by saying “I am not perfect ‘ and they deny to aim for perfection. Jesus took your sins upon himself so that we can be perfect in God ' s eyes. Every person is to develop God ' s righteous character as in "perfect" themselves to be more like God. Look here what the bible says about perfection?
These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God. Genesis 6:9
Let your heart therefore be perfect with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day. 1 Kings 8:61
There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. Job 1:1
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. 2 Samuel 22:33, Psalm 18:32.
And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? Job 1:8
Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will he help the evil doers: Job 8:20
Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. Psalm 101:6
For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it. Proverbs 2:21
The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. Proverbs 11:5
This is what the Sovereign LORD says: " ' You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. Ezekiel 28:12
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48
I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1 Corinthians 1:10
But when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 1 Corinthians 13:10
For by one offering He has Perfected for all time those who are sanctified" Hebrews 10:12, 14
Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
But the high places were not taken away out of Israel: nevertheless the heart of Asa was perfect all his days. 2 Chronicles 15:17
Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians 3:12
We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. Colossians 1:28
And, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him. Hebrews 5:9
Because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Hebrews 10:14
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2
To the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect. Hebrews 12:23
If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. James 3:2
And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. Luke 8:14
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2
Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Colossians 1:28
That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:17
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 1 Peter 5:10.
1) There are righteous People: A true righteous person rejoice in Christ, loves Christ,obeyes God and Christ, walks Honestly In the Spirit, Worthy of the Lord, Striving for the faith, Abstaining from all appearance of evil., Putting away all sin, Perfecting holiness, Showing a good example, Shunning the wicked, devoting themselves for god and choosing to live right in Gods eyes.
Romans 3:10 but they ignore other numerous examples of verses of actual named people who were righteous.
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous and blameless we were among you who believed. (1 Th 2:10)
This is the account of Noah. Noah was a righteous man, blameless among the people of his time, and he walked with God. (Gen 6:9)
Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. (Mat 1:19)
Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. (Luke 2:25)
And so upon you will come all the righteous blood that has been shed on earth, from the blood of righteous Abel to the blood of Zechariah son of Berekiah, whom you murdered between the temple and the altar. (Mat 23:35)
And if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard) (2 Pet 2:7,8)
Was not our ancestor Abraham considered righteous for what he did when he offered his son Isaac on the altar? (James 2:21)
1 Corinthians 1:30 But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
Romans 4:5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness;
Philippians 3:9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Romans 4:6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works.
2) Self righteous is hateful to God: Self righteous people Are pure in their own eyes makes up their OWN LAWS, and ignore the laws of God, they are boastful, Unprofitable, their RIGHTEOUSNESS IS external or partial,they justify themselves and before men, they Reject the righteousness of God, Proclaim their own goodness
Luke 16:15 :He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's sight.
Matthew 23:25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.
Luke 11:42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
Luke 18:11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
Luke 16:15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
Proverbs 21:2 Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.
Proverbs 30:12 There is a generation that are pure in their own eyes, and yet is not washed from their filthiness.
Matthew 23:27-28 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
Romans 10:3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
Revelation 3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
According to these Scriptures, Noah, Joseph, Simeon, Abel, Zechariah, Lot and Abraham are all clearly cited as being righteous. For the Word of God reveals that God has always had his saints. He has always had a people that feared him, loved him, and kept his commandments. He has always had a people that did not break his commandments daily in thought, word, and deed: There was Job, of whom God said, "A perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil." There was Enoch who "walked with God" and "was not, for God took him." There was Zacharias and Elizabeth who "were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless." There was John the Baptist who was filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. There was Joseph who was sold into Egypt, but who loved his brethren who sold him into Egypt, and kept himself pure in the matter of Potiphar's wife. There was Daniel who was taken captive to Babylon, and Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and all the holy prophets and holy apostles, and all the saints of both the Old and New Testaments. The Bible clearly teaches that God's people can and do live without sin. Christians can claim God’s perfection only through Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21). As long as our eyes stay focused on God and our savior Jesus Christ, we cannot go wrong.We must be as perfect as our Heavenly Father! (Matt. 5:48).Christians are perfect only through the one sacrifice that Jesus made. Scripture says this very clear:
"Because by one sacrifice he has MADE PERFECT FOREVER those who are being made holy." Hebrews 10:14
3) Righteous will live because of his faith: The righteousness which God requires is a righteousness that is based in faith, in believing on the Son of God and what He did at the cross for man's salvation.
For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” (Rom 1:17)
Clearly no one is justified before God by the law, because, “The righteous will live by faith.” (Gal 3:11)
But my righteous one will live by faith. And if he shrinks back, I will not be pleased with him. (Heb 10:38)
See, he is puffed up; his desires are not upright—but the righteous will live by his faith (Hab 2:4)
4) We need to be good, holy and righteous for the Lord and God rewards for that:
”In this the children of God and the children of the devil are manifest: whoever does not practice righteousness is not of God, nor is he who does not love his brother.” (1 John 3:10)
“In the way of righteousness is life, and in its pathway there is no death.” (Proverbs 12:28)
“But to him who sows righteousness will be a sure reward. As righteousness leads to life, so he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death.” (Proverbs 11:18-19)
Thus says the Lord: “Keep justice, and do righteousness … blessed is the man who does this … and keeps his hand from doing any evil.” (Isaiah 56:1-2)
“The way of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but He loves him who follows righteousness.” (Proverbs 15:9)
“The labor of the righteous leads to life, the wages of the wicked to sin. He who keeps instruction is in the way of life, but he who refuses reproof goes astray.” (Proverbs 10:16-17)
“To do righteousness and justice is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” (Proverbs 21:3)
“The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” (Proverbs 20:7)
“When a man’s ways please the Lord, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Better is a little with righteousness, than vast revenues without justice.” (Proverbs 16:7-8)
“Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God.” (1 Corinthians 15:33-34)
“All unrighteousness is sin …” (1 John 5:17)
“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, reprove the oppressor; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.” (Isaiah 1:16-17)
“Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of evil. Avoid it, do not travel on it; turn away from it and pass on … But the path of the just is like the shining sun, that shines ever brighter unto the perfect day. The way of the wicked is like darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.” (Proverbs 4:14-19)
“It is an abomination for kings to commit wickedness, for a throne is established by righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:12)
5) The Bible teaches that the believers and saints can live without sin. The fear of God restrains us from sin.
For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world. I John 5:4
Thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matt. 1:21
WeKnow that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not. I John 5:18
Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. I John 3:6.
Sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Rom. 6:14
Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. Jude 24, 25
Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. Romans 5:14
Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. I John 3:9
Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. Romans 6:18
And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to prove you, and that his fear may be before your faces, that ye sin not. Exodus 20:20
Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah. Psalms 4:4
By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. Proverbs 16:6
To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. Acts 26:18
6. Man can be Righteousness and perfect: The following verses proves that we can live perfect and Right.
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. 1 Peter 2:24
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. 2 Samuel 22:33
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48
If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Matthew 19:21
Son of man, take up a lament concerning the king of Tyre and say to him: ' This is what the Sovereign LORD says: " ' You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. Ezekiel 28:12
But when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 1 Corinthians 13:10
Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. Corinthians 13:11
Because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Hebrews 10:14
All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.2 Timothy 3:16-17
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Colossians 3:14
And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10
For the upright will live in the land, and the blameless will remain in it. Proverbs 2:21
You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness Rom. 6:18
The fruit of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quietness and confidence forever. Isaiah 32:17
7. Self righteous are Counterfeit Christians: Self righteous people don’t genuinely hate sin, they look saved, talks saved, act liked saved, but they are not saved and aren’t truly sorry for any sin; they’re merely sorry because God is going to punish them and rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends. They do not want to be rejected, nor do they want to make people uncomfortable by talking about private issues like religion. They do not rebuke or correct the sinner, infact they justify themselves by saying we are all sinners, they compromise with the worldly standards ,they say we are living right according to our heart or our feelings, we are created differently, has different cultures and hence has different opinions, thereby ignoring Gods opinion and Gods ways and Gods culture. Matthew 10:32-33.
Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men ' s bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. ( Matthew 23:27-28)
8) Aim perfect, be Perfect: Some men always defend themselves by saying “I am not perfect ‘ and they deny to aim for perfection. Jesus took your sins upon himself so that we can be perfect in God ' s eyes. Every person is to develop God ' s righteous character as in "perfect" themselves to be more like God. Look here what the bible says about perfection?
These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God. Genesis 6:9
Let your heart therefore be perfect with the LORD our God, to walk in his statutes, and to keep his commandments, as at this day. 1 Kings 8:61
There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. Job 1:1
It is God who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. 2 Samuel 22:33, Psalm 18:32.
And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? Job 1:8
Behold, God will not cast away a perfect man, neither will he help the evil doers: Job 8:20
Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in a perfect way, he shall serve me. Psalm 101:6
For the upright shall dwell in the land, and the perfect shall remain in it. Proverbs 2:21
The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. Proverbs 11:5
This is what the Sovereign LORD says: " ' You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and perfect in beauty. Ezekiel 28:12
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:48
I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. 1 Corinthians 1:10
But when perfection comes, the imperfect disappears. 1 Corinthians 13:10
For by one offering He has Perfected for all time those who are sanctified" Hebrews 10:12, 14
Since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. 2 Corinthians 7:1
But the high places were not taken away out of Israel: nevertheless the heart of Asa was perfect all his days. 2 Chronicles 15:17
Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11
Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Philippians 3:12
We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. Colossians 1:28
And, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him. Hebrews 5:9
Because by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy. Hebrews 10:14
Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2
To the church of the firstborn, whose names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the judge of all men, to the spirits of righteous men made perfect. Hebrews 12:23
If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. James 3:2
And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. Luke 8:14
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2
Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: Colossians 1:28
That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. 2 Timothy 3:17
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 1 Peter 5:10.
Wrong understanding of All have sinned!
Rom. 3:23 - Some Protestants use this verse "all have sinned" in an attempt to prove that Mary was also with sin. But "all have sinned " only means that all are subject to original sin. Mary was spared from original sin by God, not herself. The popular analogy is God let us fall in the mud puddle, and cleaned us up afterward through baptism. In Mary's case, God did not let her enter the mud puddle.
Rom. 3:23 - "all have sinned" also refers only to those able to commit sin. This is not everyone. For example, infants, the retarded, and the senile cannot sin.
Rom. 3:23 - finally, "all have sinned," but Jesus must be an exception to this rule. This means that Mary can be an exception as well. Note that the Greek word for all is "pantes."
1 Cor. 15:22 - in Adam all ("pantes") have died, and in Christ all ("pantes") shall live. This proves that "all" does not mean "every single one." This is because not all have died (such as Enoch and Elijah who were taken up to heaven), and not all will go to heaven (because Jesus said so).
Rom. 5:12 - Paul says that death spread to all ("pantes") men. Again, this proves that "all" does not mean "every single one" because death did not spread to all men (as we have seen with Enoch and Elijah).
Rom. 5:19 - here Paul says "many (not all) were made sinners." Paul uses "polloi," not "pantes." Is Paul contradicting what he said in Rom. 3:23? Of course not. Paul means that all are subject to original sin, but not all reject God.
Rom. 3:10-11 - Protestants also use this verse to prove that all human beings are sinful and thus Mary must be sinful. But see Psalm 14 which is the basis of the verse.
Psalm 14 - this psalm does not teach that all humans are sinful. It only teaches that, among the wicked, all are sinful. The righteous continue to seek God.
Psalm 53:1-3 - "there is none that does good" expressly refers to those who have fallen away. Those who remain faithful do good, and Jesus calls such faithful people "good."
Luke 18:19 - Jesus says, "No one is good but God alone." But then in Matt. 12:35, Jesus also says "The good man out of his good treasure..." So Jesus says no one is good but God, and then calls another person good.
Rom. 9:11 - God distinguished between Jacob and Esau in the womb, before they sinned. Mary was also distinguished from the rest of humanity in the womb by being spared by God from original sin.
Luke 1:47 - Mary calls God her Savior. Some Protestants use this to denigrate Mary. Why? Of course God is Mary's Savior! She was freed from original sin in the womb (unlike us who are freed from sin outside of the womb), but needed a Savior as much as the rest of humanity.
Luke 1:48 - Mary calls herself lowly. But any creature is lowly compared to God. For example, in Matt. 11:29, even Jesus says He is lowly in heart. Lowliness is a sign of humility, which is the greatest virtue of holiness, because it allows us to empty ourselves and receive the grace of God to change our sinful lives.
Exceptions for all have sinned;1 John 3:9, Luke 1:15, Luke 1:6, Romans 6:23, Romans 10:9, 10, Romans 6:18, 1 John 5:18, Exodus 20:20, Psalms 119:11
Rom. 3:23 - "all have sinned" also refers only to those able to commit sin. This is not everyone. For example, infants, the retarded, and the senile cannot sin.
Rom. 3:23 - finally, "all have sinned," but Jesus must be an exception to this rule. This means that Mary can be an exception as well. Note that the Greek word for all is "pantes."
1 Cor. 15:22 - in Adam all ("pantes") have died, and in Christ all ("pantes") shall live. This proves that "all" does not mean "every single one." This is because not all have died (such as Enoch and Elijah who were taken up to heaven), and not all will go to heaven (because Jesus said so).
Rom. 5:12 - Paul says that death spread to all ("pantes") men. Again, this proves that "all" does not mean "every single one" because death did not spread to all men (as we have seen with Enoch and Elijah).
Rom. 5:19 - here Paul says "many (not all) were made sinners." Paul uses "polloi," not "pantes." Is Paul contradicting what he said in Rom. 3:23? Of course not. Paul means that all are subject to original sin, but not all reject God.
Rom. 3:10-11 - Protestants also use this verse to prove that all human beings are sinful and thus Mary must be sinful. But see Psalm 14 which is the basis of the verse.
Psalm 14 - this psalm does not teach that all humans are sinful. It only teaches that, among the wicked, all are sinful. The righteous continue to seek God.
Psalm 53:1-3 - "there is none that does good" expressly refers to those who have fallen away. Those who remain faithful do good, and Jesus calls such faithful people "good."
Luke 18:19 - Jesus says, "No one is good but God alone." But then in Matt. 12:35, Jesus also says "The good man out of his good treasure..." So Jesus says no one is good but God, and then calls another person good.
Rom. 9:11 - God distinguished between Jacob and Esau in the womb, before they sinned. Mary was also distinguished from the rest of humanity in the womb by being spared by God from original sin.
Luke 1:47 - Mary calls God her Savior. Some Protestants use this to denigrate Mary. Why? Of course God is Mary's Savior! She was freed from original sin in the womb (unlike us who are freed from sin outside of the womb), but needed a Savior as much as the rest of humanity.
Luke 1:48 - Mary calls herself lowly. But any creature is lowly compared to God. For example, in Matt. 11:29, even Jesus says He is lowly in heart. Lowliness is a sign of humility, which is the greatest virtue of holiness, because it allows us to empty ourselves and receive the grace of God to change our sinful lives.
Exceptions for all have sinned;1 John 3:9, Luke 1:15, Luke 1:6, Romans 6:23, Romans 10:9, 10, Romans 6:18, 1 John 5:18, Exodus 20:20, Psalms 119:11
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