How Does God Impute His Righteousness To Us Orthodoxy

How Does God Impute His Righteousness to Us? An Orthodox Perspective

The imputation of God's righteousness is a cornerstone of Christian theology, particularly within the Orthodox tradition. Understanding this concept requires delving into the intricacies of Orthodox teachings on salvation, grace, and theosis. This post will explore how God's righteousness is imputed to us, not as a mere legal fiction, but as a transformative process rooted in Christ's work and our participation in His life.

The Inherent Problem: Humanity's Fall and the Need for Grace

Orthodox theology emphasizes the reality of humanity's fall in Adam. This isn't simply a matter of inheriting a predisposition to sin, but a profound alienation from God, resulting in a corrupted nature. This corruption, referred to as logismos (the intellect's disordered state), profoundly affects our ability to know and love God. We are incapable of achieving righteousness on our own merit.

The Incapacity of Human Effort

The Orthodox Church firmly rejects the notion of sola fide (faith alone) as the sole means of salvation. While faith is crucial, it is not a passive belief but an active participation in the divine life, fueled by God's grace. Human effort alone is insufficient; it's like trying to climb a mountain without the right equipment and training. We need divine assistance.

Christ's Atonement: The Foundation of Imputed Righteousness

The pivotal event in the imputation of righteousness is the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His death on the cross wasn't merely a punishment for our sins, but a ransom paid to reconcile humanity with God. Christ, being fully God and fully man, united the divine and human natures, bridging the chasm created by the Fall.

Participation in Christ's Life

Christ's righteousness isn't merely credited to us; it's imparted to us through the sacraments, especially baptism. Through baptism, we are incorporated into Christ's mystical body, becoming partakers in His divine life and experiencing a transformation of our nature.

Theosis: Becoming Like God

This transformative process is known as theosis—becoming like God. It's not a denial of our humanity, but a deification, a participation in the divine energies that gradually heals the wounds of the Fall. This ongoing process is fueled by prayer, participation in the sacraments, and a life lived in accordance with God's commandments.

A Dynamic Process, Not a Static Event

The imputation of righteousness is not a one-time event but a continuous process. It is a dynamic engagement with God's grace that unfolds throughout our lives. It requires active participation and a constant striving toward holiness. It’s a journey, not a destination.

Living the Imputed Righteousness: Fruit of the Spirit

The fruits of imputed righteousness manifest in our lives through actions rooted in love, compassion, and humility. These are not earned but are the natural outpouring of God's grace working within us. We see this transformation in acts of charity, forgiveness, and a desire for communion with God and others.

Conclusion: A Life Transformed

In Orthodox theology, the imputation of God's righteousness is not a mere legal transaction. It's a life-transforming process initiated by God's grace and fueled by our active participation in the life of Christ. It's a continuous journey toward theosis, a gradual transformation into the image of God. This profound mystery lies at the heart of Orthodox understanding of salvation.