Let’s talk about... A UNIQUE RACE OF PEOPLE Single identity. Common origin. Native land. Same language. Exclusive culture. Those who embrace the Christian faith are a ‘race’ of people. The most FASCINATING race on the planet.
1 Peter 1:12 “Unto [the Old Testament prophets] it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the Gospel unto you with the Holy Spirit sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.” Why are the Angels, who are living in Heaven, and can see God always, so fascinated in us and what we have? Who are we?
We, most properly, can be called THE CHRISTIAN RACE. However, the word ‘Christian’ is mentioned in the Bible only 3 times; whether the King James Version, New American Standard, or the NIV. But the phrase, ‘The Righteous'” is mentioned surprisingly more. KJV – 143 verses New American Standard – 172 WHY? NIV – 157 And ‘Righteousness’ (that is what the Righteous do) is mentioned... KJV – 291 verses. New American Standard – 299 WHY? NIV – 213
T HE R IGHTEOUS “Christians Victorious”
Who are T HE R IGHTEOUS ?
The Scriptures give us a very plain and direct definition of The Righteous: Malachi3:18 Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not. King James Version (KJV) Public Domain And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not. New International Version, ©2011 (NIV)
T R A N S F O R M E D (Changing from myself to ‘The Righteous’) Romans 12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. King James Version Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. New International Version
Believed God would do the IMPOSSIBLE! Romans 4:3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Galatians 3:6 Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. James 2:23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.
Why I want to be one of The Righteous: Proverbs 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked, But He hears the prayer of the righteous. We may not obtain miracles by “the laying on of hands” where the blind see and the sick rise from their beds. But miracles are obtainable in prayer! I know God would do the impossible for me!
Apostle Paul (Confident) “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: “And not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” Elihu Yale’s epitaph (Unsure) “Born in America, in Europe bred, In Africa travell'd and in Asia wed, Where long he liv'd and thriv'd; in London dead “Much good, some ill, he did; so hope all's even And that his soul thro' mercy's gone to Heaven. “You that survive and read this tale, take care, For this most certain exit to prepare: Where blest in peace, the actions of the just Smell Sweet, and blossom in the silent dust.” The Righteous KNOW they are going to Heaven!
Acts 10:35 “But in every nation he that feareth God, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.” How do I “work righteousness? By serving God. 1.Hear the Gospel 2.Believe it 3.Repent and turn to God’s ways 4.Confess that you believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God 5.Be Baptized, for the remission of your sins.