1 John 2:29 KJV
[29] If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.
A righteous birth will produce a righteous life. This is a fundamental truth that cannot be ignored. There is another fundamental truth, and that is, that you and I are not righteous. We can never be righteous within ourselves, and we can never obtain righteousness by ourselves. These thoughts will really help us to place this verse in context.
First, we see who is righteous. John says we know that he is righteous. There is no argument when it comes to the righteousness of Christ. He is the perfect lamb of God. Pilate stated he found no fault in Jesus, and it has been echoed by all who have investigated him. Nothing can be laid to his charge. He had a righteous birth, lived a righteous life and died a righteous death. The world testified at his death that he truly was the Son of God.
Those who have received Christ as their Savior have received his righteousness. His righteousness has been placed upon them. I’m glad I can say I have traded my filthy rags for his robe of righteousness. When God sees me, he does not see my garments of sin, he sees his Son. He sees me as worthy, when he looks through the blood of Calvary’s cross. I’m so glad the blood covers all of our sins.
As saints, we are not perfect, but we are forgiven. We can find daily cleansing and renewal. Our position never changes because it is anchored in his righteousness. We should get up every day and thank the Lord for the salvation he has provided, and the security he has given in the righteousness of Jesus Christ. Do not be fooled by the filthy garments of religion. It may dress you up, but Christ will clean you up. He will give you a righteous birth that will produce a righteous life.