04/05/2025
THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD
Theme of the Year: Growing in Christ and Keeping His Promises
Preacher: Pastor Bostone Nshindano
Interpreter: Brother Josphat Mulutula
Main Scripture: Ezekiel 18:22-23
Supporting Scriptures: James 4:8, Hebrews 1:8-9, Psalm 45:6-7
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Introduction
“You will only know a person when you communicate with him.” This statement aligns perfectly with James 4:8, which encourages us to draw near to God so that He may draw near to us. If we want to grow in the things of God, we must learn to walk closely with Him, and a key part of that is understanding the righteousness of God.
Our theme this year is "Growing in Christ and Keeping His Promises." But how can we grow in Christ if we do not understand His righteousness? This message seeks to lead us into a deeper understanding of God's righteous nature and how it shapes our relationship with Him.
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Understanding the Righteousness of God
Let us begin by reading Ezekiel 18:22–23. The prophet Ezekiel reminds us that when a wicked person turns away from their sins and chooses righteousness, God forgives and remembers their sin no more. This scripture reveals the heart of a righteous God—one who desires repentance over punishment, restoration over destruction.
The name "Ezekiel" means “God strengthens.” He was called to encourage people who had lost hope. Through him, God reminded His people of His justice, mercy, and righteousness. His writings challenge us to reflect on our own lives and return to God.
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Illustration: The Rotten Groundnut
Think of groundnuts. You could have a handful of good ones, but if there’s just one rotten nut, the whole mouthful tastes bad. In the same way, just one sin can ruin a righteous life if not dealt with. That is why we must take sin seriously and understand how God views it.
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Two Key Points on the Righteousness of God
1. God Hates Sin
Let’s read Hebrews 1:8-9 and Psalm 45:6-7. These scriptures declare that God loves righteousness and hates wickednes
