Question: Is someone considered righteous who keeps the doctrines of the Church?

This question goes to the heart of what true righteousness means. The apostle Paul often addressed this issue as he navigated the tensions between the Jewish Christians and newly converted Gentiles. Many Jews sought righteousness by adhering to rituals and commands of the Mosaic law. Similarly, some people in the Church today look to rules and doctrines as the path to righteousness.

However, Paul makes it clear that true righteousness cannot be earned by our actions. Galatians 2:16 states: “Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ…. for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified.”

In God’s plan, righteousness is obtained through faith in the divine work of Christ, not by following a list of rules. No matter how good those rules or doctrines might be, they cannot bring salvation. Justification—being declared “innocent” or “right” before God—does not come from our own efforts. Rather, we are made righteous by faith, for righteousness is more a condition of the heart than of external actions.

People may pray, sacrifice, praise, give, dress modestly, and do other good deeds, but these actions alone cannot change the condition of the heart. Even someone who does not believe in God can perform those acts. It is only through a divine work of God that one can truly be made “right” in His sight. Romans 5:1 teaches us, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Later in Romans 5:18-21, Paul explains that through Christ’s obedience many were made righteous. This righteousness is a transformation of the heart that comes through the power of the blood and the work of the Holy Spirit.

While good works and obedience to God’s Word naturally flow from a transformed heart, these actions themselves do not bring the righteousness of God; rather, they are the fruit of righteousness, not its root.

In balance, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of good works. A person clothed in God’s righteousness will seek to glorify Him in daily life, walking in holiness and pursuing continual growth in the graces of Christ. However, we must be careful not to depend on these works as the basis for our standing with God.

Righteousness is not achieved by merely keeping the doctrines of the Church. It comes through faith in the transforming power of Christ, which then leads to good works flowing from a righteous heart.

“Righteousness is obtained through faith in the divine work of Christ, not by following a list of rules.”