1. Definition of Righteousness
In Orthodox Christianity, righteousness is seen as a quality of being in right relationship with God. It encompasses both moral and spiritual dimensions, reflecting a life that is aligned with God’s will and commandments.
2. Imputation vs. Infusion
Orthodox theology traditionally emphasizes the concept of infusion rather than imputation of righteousness. This means that God’s righteousness is not simply credited to believers as an external status but is actually infused into them, transforming their nature and enabling them to live righteously.
The Role of Grace
1. Grace as the Divine Energy
In Orthodox thought, grace is understood as the divine energy or uncreated power of God that operates within the believer. It is not merely a legal declaration but an actual participation in the life and righteousness of God.
- Uncreated Grace: The grace imparted is uncreated and part of God’s essence, differentiating it from created grace which is a product of human effort or nature.
- Transformation: Grace transforms the believer, making them partakers of the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).
2. Synergy of Divine and Human Effort
Orthodox Christianity teaches that salvation is a cooperative process between divine grace and human free will. While God’s grace initiates and sustains the process, human cooperation (synergy) is essential for receiving and responding to this grace.
- Divine Initiative: God’s grace is freely given and is the primary source of salvation.
- Human Response: Believers must actively participate in their salvation through faith, repentance, and living according to God’s commandments.
Theological Foundations
1. The Incarnation of Christ
The Incarnation is central to the Orthodox understanding of righteousness. Through Jesus Christ’s incarnation, death, and resurrection, humanity is offered the possibility of becoming righteous.
- Christ’s Righteousness: By becoming human, Christ united Himself with humanity, living a perfect, sinless life. His righteousness is thus imparted to believers through union with Him.
- Deification (Theosis): This union with Christ is understood as deification, where believers are transformed and made partakers of the divine nature.
2. The Sacraments
Sacraments play a vital role in imparting God’s grace and righteousness. Through the sacraments, believers are continuously nurtured and strengthened in their spiritual journey.
- Baptism: Initiates the believer into the divine life and cleanses them from original sin.
- Eucharist: Nourishes and sustains the believer in the divine life, reinforcing their union with Christ.
- Confession and Repentance: Restore and renew the believer’s relationship with God, enabling continued participation in divine grace.
Practical Aspects of Receiving Righteousness
1. Living a Virtuous Life
Orthodox Christians believe that righteousness is manifested through a life of virtue and adherence to God’s commandments. This involves living out the teachings of Christ, practicing humility, love, and forgiveness.
2. Spiritual Discipline
Regular spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, fasting, and almsgiving, are integral to growing in righteousness. These practices help believers to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and align their lives with divine will.
3. Participation in the Church
Being an active member of the Church is crucial for receiving and nurturing divine grace. The communal aspects of worship, fellowship, and support within the Church environment help believers in their spiritual growth and transformation.
Theological Distinctions
1. Contrast with Western Theologies
Orthodox theology differs from some Western Christian doctrines in its understanding of imputation. Western traditions, such as certain strands of Protestantism, often emphasize a forensic view of imputation where righteousness is credited to believers as a legal status. In contrast, Orthodoxy emphasizes the transformative and participatory nature of divine grace.
2. Holistic Salvation
Orthodox Christianity views salvation as a holistic process that involves both justification and sanctification. It’s not merely a matter of being declared righteous but involves an ongoing process of becoming righteous through the transformative power of grace.
Conclusion
In Orthodox Christianity, the imputation of God’s righteousness is intimately connected with the transformative process of salvation. It is not seen merely as a legal or external declaration but as an infusion of divine grace that transforms the believer’s nature and enables them to live righteously. This process involves a synergy between divine grace and human cooperation, with the Incarnation of Christ, the sacraments, and a virtuous life playing crucial roles. Understanding this theological framework provides a deeper appreciation of how righteousness is imparted and lived out in the Orthodox tradition.
