Conceptual Understanding
1. “Righteousness” is often misunderstood as simply being morally good. How does N.T. Wright explain the deeper meaning of God’s “righteousness” in this chapter, and why is this distinction important?
2. Wright argues that Paul isn’t against good works in general, but against “works of the law.” What specifically did Paul mean by this phrase, and why was it a stumbling block for both Jews and Gentiles?
3. How does the cross of Jesus Christ demonstrate God’s righteousness, according to Wright? Go beyond the idea of “payment for sins” and explore the broader implications of Christ’s faithfulness.
4. Why is the inclusion of the Gentiles a crucial aspect of God’s righteousness, and how does it connect to the promises made to Abraham?
5. What challenges and opportunities arise when Jews and Gentiles are united in a single “new covenant community”? How does this community reflect God’s righteousness in the world?
Growing In Intimacy with Jesus
6. Reflect on a time when you felt excluded or judged by others because of your beliefs or actions. How does Paul’s message about the inclusiveness of God’s righteousness in Christ challenge those feelings and offer a different perspective on your own identity and worth?
7.. Wright emphasizes that God’s righteousness is not about earning our way into His favor, but about receiving His grace. How does this understanding free you from the pressure to perform and allow you to rest in God’s love?
8. The cross is the ultimate expression of God’s faithfulness and self-giving love. Spend some time meditating on the image of Christ crucified. What emotions and thoughts arise as you contemplate His sacrifice for you?
9. Imagine yourself as part of the new covenant community described by Wright, where Jews and Gentiles are united in Christ. How does this vision challenge your own prejudices and preconceptions, and inspire you to embrace diversity and build bridges with those who are different from you?
10. Consider how you can embody God’s righteousness in your daily life. What concrete actions can you take to promote justice, extend grace, and share the love of Christ with others?
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Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
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Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post