The Myth of Worthless Righteousness
Many Christians have been misled into believing that their good deeds are nothing but “filthy rags” in the eyes of God. This misconception stems from a misinterpretation of Isaiah 64:6, which says, “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags.” However, this verse is often taken out of context and misunderstood.
Understanding Isaiah’s Intent
Isaiah was not condemning all righteous acts as worthless. Instead, he was criticizing the empty rituals and superficial obedience of the Israelites. Their actions were not genuinely motivated by faith or a desire to please God, but rather by a sense of duty or obligation. In contrast, Isaiah 64:5 says, “You meet him who joyfully works righteousness, those who remember you in your ways.” This verse suggests that God does appreciate and reward genuine righteousness.
The Value of Righteousness
While it is true that our righteousness can never earn us salvation or justify us before God, it is also true that God values and rewards the righteous acts of his people. As John Piper notes, “God does produce in those ‘justified’ people (before and after the cross) an experiential righteousness that is not ‘filthy rags.’” This righteousness is precious to God and is required as evidence of our being truly justified children of God.
Pleasing God
So, what kind of actions please God? According to the Bible, God is pleased when we:
- Bear fruit in every good work (Colossians 1:10)
- Present our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1)
- Look out for the weaker brother (Romans 14:18)
- Obey our parents (Colossians 3:20)
- Teach the Word in truth (1 Thessalonians 2:4)
- Pray for the governing authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-3)
- Support our family members in need (1 Timothy 5:4)
- Share with others (Hebrews 13:16)
- Keep his commandments (1 John 3:22)
A Father’s Delight
Why do we imagine God to be so unmoved by our heartfelt attempts at obedience? He is, after all, our heavenly Father. What kind of father looks at his child’s homemade birthday card and complains that the color scheme is all wrong? God is not a capricious slave driver, but a loving Father who delights in the genuine righteousness of his children.
Conclusion
While our righteousness can never earn us salvation, it is also true that God values and rewards the righteous acts of his people. As Christians, we should strive to please God through our obedience, not out of a sense of duty or obligation, but out of a genuine desire to honor and glorify him. By doing so, we demonstrate our love and appreciation for the gospel and the gift of salvation that we have received.
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