In a Biblical context, righteousness refers to being in 'right standing' with God, while holiness signifies being set apart for His service and living in a way that reflects His character.
Think of it this way:
A runner standing at the starting line of the Boston Marathon has been declared worthy to compete by successfully finishing another sanctioned 26.2-mile race in a qualifying time.
'Righteousness' is like his rightful position in that elite group of athletes ... an established, unchanging, identifying marker.'Holiness', on the other hand, represents his dedication and devotion to what happens after the gun goes off. The runner's focus is on monitoring his pace, fighting fatigue, and finishing strong. It is not 'static' ... but 'active'.
Righteousness is the condition of being 'morally excellent' ... 'justification'.
Holiness is the process of working out that 'moral excellence' ... 'sanctification'.
In the mind of a Christian, these can seem like impossible 'ideals' demanded by the Lord. But thankfully ... we are not left to our own devices.
When we trust in Jesus’ finished work on Calvary's cross, we are forever cloaked in His righteousness ... God made Him [Jesus] who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. (2 Corinthians 5:21)
But what about this verse? ... Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. (Hebrews 12:14)
Like righteousness, 'holiness' is a gift from God. It is a 'progressive' change that comes from His indwelling Spirit ... transforming you into the likeness of His Son.
The promise ... He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ. (Philippians 1:6)
Understanding 'righteousness' and 'holiness' reveals how faith works. They represent what and who you are in the eyes of God; hidden in Christ, justified, and sanctified.
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