Let’s zoom in on Romans 1:17 this time:
“For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’”
When Paul says he’s not ashamed of the gospel, it’s because he knows what it reveals—not guilt, not condemnation, but the righteousness of God.
Wait, What Does “Righteousness” Even Mean?
It’s not just about good behavior. In Greek, the word is δικαιοσύνη (dikaiosúne), which means justice, right standing, being made right with God.
And the gospel? It shows us how to get that righteousness. Not by effort. Not by moral checklists. But by faith.
Two Sides of Righteousness
- Imputed — You’re credited as righteous when you believe (Romans 4:3–5).
- Imparted — You’re made new inside (2 Corinthians 5:21; Ezekiel 36:26).
So yes, your behavior may still be a work in progress. But your identity? It’s locked in. You are righteous—not because you earned it, but because Jesus gave it.
This Is What the Gospel Does
It doesn’t just save you from something—it reveals who you truly are in Christ. It’s not just a rescue. It’s a rebirth.
Leave a Reply