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Understanding the Three Dimensions of Divine Righteousness

What are the three ways we understand the 'righteousness of God'?

AdventAI

Are there three righteousness

AdventAI

Yes, there are three distinct senses in which the term "righteousness of God" is understood, as well as three cardinal points of the Holy Spirit's conviction.

The Three Senses of Divine Righteousness

The phrase "the righteousness of God" is used in three primary ways regarding the plan of salvation:

  • Divine Attributes: It refers primarily to the inherent attributes and perfections of God Himself Psalms 111:3.

  • The Revelation of His Will: It refers to the unfolding of His attributes through His law and the scriptures.

  • The Character of the Saints: It refers to the righteousness of those whose characters are made conformable to His will through the work of Christ 2 Corinthians 5:21.

The Three Points of Conviction

The Holy Spirit, as the Representative of Christ, acts as an Advocate to convict the world on three specific points:

  • Sin: Establishing the fact of guilt because the world does not believe in Christ John 16:8-9.

  • Righteousness: Carrying home the fact of guilt because Christ has ascended to the Father and is removed from human sight, leaving His followers to reveal His character John 16:8.

  • Judgment: Establishing that the prince of this world, Satan, has already been judged John 16:8.

Three Essential Gifts in Christ

In accepting Christ by faith, the soul finds three specific things that satisfy its longings:

  • Righteousness: This is the foundation of our standing before God.

  • Eternal Life: The prize offered to those who overcome through His strength 1 Timothy 6:12.

  • The Immortal Inheritance: The future joy of the redeemed in the earth made new.

The Three Virtues of the Christian

The life of a believer is anchored by three prominent virtues: faith, hope, and love 1 Corinthians 13:13. While faith is the main pillar that fastens upon God and enables us to overcome the world, love is considered the greatest because it continues throughout eternity and extends to both God and fellow men 1 John 5:4. 🌟

Sources · 6
  1. ARSH October 6, 1863, page 150.2Advent Review, and Sabbath Herald, vol. 22James Springer White
  2. LTJMB5 190.1The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah—Book VAlfred Edersheim
  3. GCDB March 2, 1893, page 447.5General Conference Daily Bulletin, vol. 5General Conference of SDA
  4. SAIN 27.1The Saints’ InheritanceJohn Norton Loughborough
  5. SAIN 87.1The Saints’ InheritanceJohn Norton Loughborough
  6. ARSH April 1, 1862, page 141.22Advent Review, and Sabbath Herald, vol. 19James Springer White