“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”
John 3:16 (NKJV)
Discussion Questions:
- What makes the atonement and redemptive work of Jesus Christ unique compared to other religions? How does the gospel reveal God’s righteousness and His just way of redeeming mankind? And when we confess Jesus as Lord and believe in His resurrection, how does this position us in a right relationship with God?( John 3:16; Romans 1:16-17; Romans 10:9-10)
- How does understanding righteousness as a positional truth in Christ free us from guilt, condemnation, and insecurity before God? How does this righteousness empower us to live boldly and victoriously in our daily lives despite challenges and spiritual opposition? And how does knowing that God sees us as righteous in Christ strengthen our confidence in prayer? (Ephesians 4:24; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 1:6; Romans 5:1; Ephesians 4:24; Isaiah 54:14; James 5:16-18)
- What is the difference between self-righteousness and the righteousness that comes from faith in Jesus Christ? Why is self-achieved righteousness compared to “filthy rags,” and why can it not produce confidence or effective prayer before God? And how does understanding God’s gift of righteousness in Christ protect us from pride and judgmental attitudes toward others? (Romans 9:30; Romans 10:3-4; Luke 18:9-12; Isaiah 64:6a; Galatians 2:21)
Sermon Summary
This week’s sermon focuses on the reality of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. Unlike self-righteousness, which depends on human effort, God’s righteousness is a positional truth given through Christ’s atonement. We are justified, accepted, and freed from guilt, fear, and condemnation. This truth empowers us to stand boldly before God, pray confidently, and live in holiness from the inside out. Understanding our identity in Christ transforms our lives and enables us to share the gospel effectively. Let us rejoice in this great treasure and proclaim the Good News with boldness, knowing our salvation is secure in Him.