Imputed Righteousness

The imputed righteousness of Jesus Christ is a comforting doctrine to all Christians. To you, sinner, who ask what you must do to be saved, how uncomfortable would it be to tell you, by good works, when perhaps you have never done one good work in all your life.  This would be driving you to despair. Indeed, no: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved," (Acts 16:31). Come to Jesus by faith, and he will receive you. You have no righteousness of your own to depend upon. If you are to be saved, it is by the righteousness of Christ, through his atonement and sacrifice for sin. His righteousness must be imputed to you, otherwise you cannot be saved. There is no difference between you, by nature,  and the greatest criminal; the difference made is all owing to the free, rich, and underserved grace of God. Come by faith to Christ. Do not come, Pharisee-like, telling God what you have done, how often you have gone to church, received the sacraments, fasted, prayed, or the like; no, come to Christ as poor, lost undone sinners, and he will accept you. Do not be rich in spirit, proud, and exalted, for no blessing attends such; but be poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God (Matt:5:5).

George Whitefield Daily Readings, Randall J. Pederson, ed., Christian Focus Publications, 2010, excerpt from the June 2 reading.