The Righteousness of God (Romans 3:21-26)

At the very center of the gospel is this truth: righteousness is not earned, but received. In this cornerstone passage from Romans, Pastor Zach proclaims the good news that God justifies sinners not by their performance, but by His grace—through the finished work of Christ. With warmth, clarity, and urgency, Zach presses us to ask: Do we really believe this? Or do we still live as if God’s favor rises and falls with our success or failure? For the self-loathing, the burnt-out, the legalist, and the doubter, this sermon is a fresh call to rest in the righteousness that descends from heaven—not our own effort. Whether you’re clinging to faith or barely holding on, come hear why your salvation doesn’t hang by a thread. It hangs on Christ—and He will not fail. 0:00 Introduction and Reflection on Romans 1:04 Exploring Personal Struggles with Belief 2:28 The Parable of Jean Valjean 4:50 The Cost of Freedom 8:08 Understanding Righteousness in the Gospel 12:01 The Role of Faith in Salvation 14:19 The Nature of Saving Faith 24:27 The Invitation to Come to Christ 24:50 The Great Equalizer of Humanity 28:31 Justification and Grace 34:33 Justice and Mercy at the Cross