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How can a Christian be both righteous and feel shame for sin?

Answered in 1 source

A Christian experiences the paradox of being declared righteous in Christ while grappling with the reality of ongoing sin, causing feelings of shame (Psalm 119:5-6).

The dual reality of a believer's position is captured beautifully in the paradox discussed in Psalm 119, where the psalmist recognizes his identity in Christ as righteous and undefiled while simultaneously lamenting his inability to perfectly keep God's statutes. This tension underscores the mystery of the Christian experience: we are justified before God through Christ, making us righteous in His sight, yet we still battle sin in our earthly existence. Romans 7 also captures this struggle, where the Apostle Paul articulates a deep dissatisfaction with the sin that dwells within him despite his new creation status in Christ. The acknowledgment of shame serves as a reminder of our dependence on Christ's righteousness and grace for daily living.
Scripture References: Psalm 119:5-6, Romans 7:14-24

Sermons (1)

The Paradox
Todd Nibert · Jul 7, 2009
Joshua

Joshua

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