Good citizenship is righteousness

Posted on July 10, 2024, 5:21 a.m. by Rev. Shobayo Kayode, The Gospel Study Centre

The Bible emphasises the importance of community despite the human complexity. The Bible says, “Behold how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity” (Psalm133:1) The scripture also teaches us to tolerate one another when we dwell together “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians.6:2), and above all, encourages us to put on love “But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection” (Col.3:14) It is obvious that our dwelling together as community of the people of God, helps us understand God’s purposes for us in pain, fears, despair, trauma, and other difficulties that often requires support. Therefore, believers should at all times be his brother’s and her sister’s keeper. We act with righteousness when we live justly and faithfully according to God’s instructions. Likewise, when we live in right relationship with God, with our neighbours and the rest of God’s creation. Righteousness is good citizenship that is appreciated by a civilized population. Our Lord Jesus Christ in all His teachings on the Mount and all through the scriptures, was calling man to righteousness. On one instance He says, “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matt.5:20) The scripture says, “Little children, let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as He is righteous.” (1 John.3:7) This is to show us that righteousness of God starts from practicing His righteousness and not our own self-righteousness. The scriptures say further “But he who sows righteousness will have a sure reward.” (Prov.11:18b) He will be rewarded because his desire is good. (Prov.11:23a) And his reward is that he will flourish like foliage (Prov.11:28b) Brethren, we need the righteousness of Jesus Christ to reign with Him in His kingdom. Not our self-righteousness that comes from someone’s own goodness and work, which the Bible says are like filthy rags. (Isaiah.64:6) Prior to reigning with Christ when He comes back, the scripture says our imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ will make us flourish like foliage even here on earth. The scripture has taught us to practice righteousness of Jesus Christ and Jesus Christ Himself taught us to hunger and thirst for righteousness for we shall be filled. (Matt.5:6) Let us henceforth take the step that will give us the righteousness, which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith. (Phil.3:9). By that righteousness, our good life on earth is assured and our eternal life is guaranteed. Evangelism Telling the goodness of Christ to people that are yet to know Him is righteousness. Tell someone about Christ today. Rev. Shobayo Kayode The Gospel Study Centre