Understanding Romans 10:3-4 and the Misinterpretation of Self-Righteousness

The text in Romans 10:3-4 is often misunderstood and misinterpreted by those who rely solely on the Old Testament and seek to establish their own righteousness. This misconception is particularly prevalent among certain orthodox teachings which suggest that if everyone merely kept the Sabbath, the Messiah would return. However, these interpretations are not aligned with the true message of the New Testament and the writings of the apostle Paul.

The Context of Romans 10:3-4

The verses in question, Romans 10:3-4, highlight a critical point about the awareness of God's righteousness and the folly of seeking to establish one's own righteousness. The key phrases #8220;THEY,#8221; #8220;THEY,#8221; and #8220;THEMSELVES#8221; in all capital letters emphasize the problem of those who decline to trust in God's method of righteousness. These verses state:

“For since they did not know the righteousness of God, and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to the righteousness of God. (Romans 10:3)

“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes. (Romans 10:4)

The passage is not referring to the Old Testament or the Sabbath as a means to achieve righteousness, but rather warning against the dangers of self-righteousness and a lack of faith in God's righteousness as revealed in the New Testament. The apostle Paul, in writing to the Romans, is addressing the root cause of this issue: a misunderstanding of God's method of redemption and a lack of trust in Jesus Christ as the centerpiece of salvation.

Proper Interpretation and the Message of the New Testament

The New Testament provides the complete revelation of God's plan for salvation. In John 5:46–47, Jesus speaks about the need to believe in Moses and thus believe in Him, as it was written about Him. Jesus is contrasting the reliance on external religious practices with the necessity of personal faith in Him. Similarly, 2 Timothy 3:15–17 emphasizes the importance of the Scriptures and how they can lead to salvation through faith in Yeshua the Messiah (Jesus).

From childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures #8230; (which can give you the wisdom that leads to deliverance through trusting in Yeshua the Messiah. All Scripture is God-breathing and is valuable for teaching the truth, convicting of sin, correcting faults and training in righteousness, #8230;) (2 Timothy 3:15–17)

This passage underscores the idea that understanding and applying the correct interpretation of the Scriptures leads to spiritual growth and righteousness, not through self-righteous efforts but through faith in Christ. Romans 10:9-10 further supports this:

“For if you confess with your mouth, #8220;Jesus is Lord,;#8221; and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved (Romans 10:9-10).

These verses clearly indicate that genuine righteousness comes from faith in Christ, not from keeping religious laws or adhering to the Old Testament traditions alone.

The Misleading Influence of False Teachings

Some teachings emphasize a #8220;un-holy trinity;#8221; a corrupt group that seeks to lead believers astray. This unholy trinity consists of:

The world, which has a disorderly and opposed mentality against God's kingdom. The devil, who deceives and consumes souls. Individuals who choose to center their lives on their own self-righteousness, pride, and ego rather than being Christ-centered.

These elements are described in verses like Revelation 12:9 and 1 Peter 5:8, which speak of Satan and false prophets.

The great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and satan, the deceiver of the whole world (Revelation 12:9).

For we have renounced the things concealed, not things boastfully, nor with manipulative lies, but like servants of God, in sincerity, in good conscience, without guile (2 Corinthians 4:2).

It is important for Christians to discern these false teachings and seek guidance through the true and holy trinity, represented by the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (1 John 5:7).

Conclusion

Understanding and interpreting Romans 10:3-4 correctly involves recognizing the importance of faith in Christ over self-righteous efforts. Christians are called to trust in the righteousness provided by God's grace, not in their own legalistic adherence to religious traditions. This truth is central to the teachings of the New Testament and is the pathway to true salvation and righteousness.

By embracing the true interpretation, we can avoid the pitfalls of self-righteousness and instead focus on personal faith in Christ. This faith, when coupled with works of righteousness, leads to a life that honors God and serves others through Christ-centered living.