Reflection Paper

Introduction

This reflection paper intends to discuss two selected topics of Righteousness and Sin Nature. It will attempt to compare the two concepts in multiple ways following the format of the book “Praxis: Beyond Theory”. Primarily, the paper will define the concepts on a theological basis. Secondly, it will attempt to relate or give examples of the concepts based on Scripture. The sections for each topic will conclude by providing practical application through real life as well as Biblical examples of both concepts.

Righteousness

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines righteous as morally good: following religious or moral laws. So a theological definition of “righteousness” could be described as “behavior” that is justified or carried out with and through morals held by a human being. This applies to believers and non-believers alike since we, ah… ALL possess morals, right? However, this could then lead to an entirely separate discussion about what people consider to be moral in their own minds!

Biblical Foundation of righteousness

The bible states that humans will not be able to achieve righteousness of their own volition: “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.” (Romans 3:20 NIV) If we are to even consider what is in God’s sight, (and as Christians we ought to strive for this), we should also consider the “right” thing to do versus what we actually succeed in doing. In Exodus 20:1-17, the “law” (Ten Commandments) provides a daily reminder, for some, of how we may fall short of God’s requirements that he has set forth for us to follow. So, while we may never achieve true righteousness as humans because of our shortcomings, we can take solace in the understanding that we can attempt it through forgiveness of our sins by Jesus. “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians...