Created for His Glory:
Exceeding Righteousness
READY:
For if there was glory in the ministry of condemnation, the ministry of righteousness must far exceed it in glory.”
2 Corinthians 3:9 ESV
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”
John 3:16-17 ESV
SET:
When I met David Pat, he introduced himself as the first Chinese Hall of Fame professional natural bodybuilder.
I imagined decades of grueling discipline—countless hours sculpting his body to perfection.
But his story runs deeper.
Beyond his personal victories in competition, David served as Captain of Team USA, leading his team to national championships in international professional natural bodybuilding.
This required servant leadership, a heart focused on the success of others, more than personal triumph.
Yet, even more remarkable may be his impact on a disabled athlete.
Through his encouragement and support, David helped this individual not only compete and win in open divisions but also rise to the extraordinary honor of joining him in the Hall of Fame.
Together, they increased the inclusivity of their sport.
David’s story helps me to reflect on God’s glory.
Jesus did not simply earn a place in the Hall of Fame of righteousness – though as the only sinless man, He alone fulfilled God’s law perfectly.
He also was the great servant leader, who raised up many disciples who became influential religious teachers.
But His greater glory is that He takes broken, sin-stained rebels and makes us radiant saints.
We were beyond disabled in our righteousness.
The Bible says we were dead in our trespasses and sins, and enemies of God.
Even when we pursued good works, it was often out of our insecurities and pride, for self-righteousness and selfish gain.
Yet through His cross and resurrection, Christ justifies us and sanctifies us, giving us His Spirit so we have the power to live for Him.
This is exceeding righteousness.
Jesus now invites us to share in His sufferings and in His glory.
He calls us to willingly lay down our lives so that the lost – especially the unworthy and the powerless – might experience His transforming love.
For all eternity, we will sing of His amazing grace that saved wretches like us.
GO:
- Reflect on how Christ’s righteousness conquers sin and death for us. Where do you see His power at work in you today?
- Are you judging or condemning anyone? Pause now and pray for them, asking God to pour out His mercy and draw them to Himself.
- How is Jesus calling you to join His glorious mission of reconciliation? Who in your life needs to experience His love through your words or actions?
Additional verses: Romans 5:6-11
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