How many people do you know who you would describe as leading very moral lives, but who have not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior? I suspect, if you look a bit deeply, you will find many.

We often look at these two words, morality and righteousness, as being synonymous. But are they?

Morality deals with behavior, deeds.

Righteousness stems from faith, with leads to obedience to God’s will.

Armor of God

Generally speaking, we see someone who lives a moral life as “living up” to the standards of God’s expectations. But they can do that without accepting God, without actually believing in God.

People can also believe in God and not live up to His standards and expectations of us.

Abraham, a liar and adulterer, was described as a righteous man. He was also described as God’s friend.

Noah, the only righteous man of his time, was a drunk.

David, a murderer, adulterer and idolater, was described as the most righteous man.

What made these men, who fell short, missed the mark (the definition of sin) on the standards of morality, we nonetheless, righteous in the eyes of God.

What made them righteous?

Faith in God. Not just belief that He is real, but faith that He will keep His promises.

Obedience to His will.

So, if we have faith and strive to be obedient, does that mean we need not lead moral lives?

The answer would seem to be obvious. Obedience –> Morality.

So, why do we continue to sin?

Can we sin and still be seen as righteous in God’s eyes?

And what are the role and meaning of confession and repentance?

Tough Issues as we go about living our daily lives.

Shalom, Art

Alive in The Word