Introduction: Do we have God’s righteousness? Do we live in God’s righteousness? If we have God’s righteousness our life will be peaceful and blessed; but if we live by self-righteousness, life is too burdensome and tiresome.

1. Israel’s ignorance and self-righteousness (1-4). Being religious is not same as being righteous. They have the religious zeal, but they lack righteousness. Their problem is self-righteousness which blinds God’s righteousness. They reject grace and establish own righteousness.

2. Work Righteousness versus Faith righteousness (5-10). The people of Israel worked for righteousness but they failed; the Gentiles did not work, but believed and God granted them righteousness. Therefore, righteousness is only by faith.

3. Righteousness is by faith (11-13). Salvation is only by faith. Specifically, 2 statements are mentioned: “Confess Jesus as Lord” and “Believe that Jesus was raised from the dead.” “Jesus is Lord” means Jesus is God; and to give Jesus the highest authority. It means that obedience to Caesar must be subordinate to obedience to Christ. Second statement, the Jews rejected Jesus’ resurrection; and it is foolishness to the Gentiles. But for believer resurrection is the foundation of our faith. The Lord made available Himself to all, because He is abounding in love. Whoever calls the name of the Lord will be saved.

Conclusion: God is gracious to us; He always treats us on the foundation of his grace and love. He grants us righteousness. Let us live by faith in His grace for His glory! Amen!