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QUESTION 164
We are all unrighteous according to Romans 3:10. After we accept Christ, and still do wrong; this is being unrighteous. 1 Corinthians 6:9 says, "... the unrighteous will not inherit heaven..." How then are we going to make it?

ANSWER:
There are two aspects of righteousness in the Bible. What you are speaking about is our practical righteous living. I do agree that this is never perfect and we all too often do things we shouldn't’. This is the righteousness that is in view in 1 Corinthians 6:9. The deeds described here make this very clear.

It is not these deeds of righteousness that we do that give us an entrance to heaven. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us..." Titus 3:5. The other aspect of righteousness is "imputed," put down to our account" which makes us right with God. Consider the following verses:

"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, saying, blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.  Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." .

The prophet could say, "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels." Isaiah 61:10. When God dresses a poor sinner up like this he is most acceptable to God. I am glad that this is my standing before God.

What about you, dear reader?  Are you naked and open to God or clothed with His righteousness, as it is only found in trusting Christ. Are you depending on yourself or Christ for salvation? He alone can save. This is why He is called, "Savior." (Luke 2:11).

All comments and questions to: Harold Smith

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Updated July 2009, by Shelly Allen