SPEAKING RIGHTEOUSNESS
For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe (Hebrews 5:13).
The phrase, “of righteousness” in our opening verse is “dikaiosunē” (Greek); it means the word or “logos” (Greek) of righteousness. Some translations use “doctrine” and others use “teaching” instead of “word.” But the spiritual communication that’s embedded in that verse is much higher; it refers to speaking righteousness or a communication of righteousness.
To further understand this, let’s examine Jesus’ response when He was tempted by Satan in Matthew 4: He quoted Scriptures each time, but not as one who was responding from the standpoint of the Law. For example, when the Bible says, “Thou shalt not steal” (Exodus
20:15), it was written to Israel as one of the commandments.
But when you become a Christian, “Thou shalt not steal” isn’t applicable to you! It doesn’t apply to your spirit. Does that mean you can steal? Of course not! In Christianity, you have a nature that doesn’t steal. You’re of the higher class. You don’t live by the Law or commandments, for the Bible says, “…the law is not made for a righteous man…” (1 Timothy 1:9).
So, when Jesus said to Satan, “…It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone…” (Matthew 4:4), He was describing His life; it was a description of His righteousness. Hallelujah! Always, God expects you to respond with the Word as Jesus did. It’s not about memorizing the
Scriptures so you could quote them; it’s about speaking righteousness, communicating in line with your nature in Christ—who you are in Him.
Sometimes, in responding with the Word, the scripture you’re quoting might not be verbatim, but you’re aware that what you’re saying is consistent with God’s Word; the message goes to your spirit in the language of the Spirit. When you respond to Satan and life’s challenges like that, you’ll always be victorious! Praise God!
CONFESSION
My life is the expression of the glory and dominion of Christ. I live the higher life. I’m an heir of God and a joint heir with Christ; the whole world is mine! The divine life is at work in me, and that life of God is activated in every fiber of my being. Glory to God!
FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 2:12-13; Colossians 3:16; Romans 10:6-8
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 14:13-36 & Genesis 49-50
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 8:12-22 & Genesis 21
