Romans 10:6-7: But The Righteousness Based On Faith Says, "Do Not Say In Your Heart, 'Who Will Ascend Into Heaven?"

Romans 10:6–7
[6] But the righteousness based on faith says, “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’” (that is, to bring Christ down) [7] “or ‘Who will descend into the abyss?’” (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead). (ESV)

As Paul speaks of a righteousness based on faith we understand that he is contrasting this way of righteousness with one that is based on the keeping of the Law. The Jews had tried to keep the Law and failed. The fact was that even for the Jews they were made righteous by believing in God, not by keeping the Law. No one could keep the Law, as we discovered, not even Moses kept it.

This new way of righteousness based on faith is not some unattainable feat that none of us can accomplish. This is why Paul says we do not have to ascend into heaven or descend into hell to somehow access this great righteousness. It is obtained by faith. The work that is necessary has already been done. Christ accomplished all that we needed on the cross of Calvary.

Consider all of the people who have done incredible works in their effort to "bring Christ down," or "bring Christ up." There are those who feel that if they pile up enough good works that God will see what they are doing and declare them holy. They agonize over just how many works are necessary to gain access to the grace of Christ.

The most freeing moment in any person's life is when they realize that all of their efforts to gain the righteousness of God are useless and that they simply need to place their faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ on their behalf. God is not far away. He is close to all who come to him humbly, and place their faith in Him.

What kind of unnecessary efforts are you involved in? Are you simply placing your faith in Christ for your righteousness? Or are you adding works to somehow gain his favor? Those who give up their efforts and walk the way of faith are truly free.