The Hebrew and Greek terms translated "righteousness" or "justice" signify that which is right or that which conforms to the character of God. Because God has graciously made a covenant with His people, His righteousness often takes the form of keeping that covenant with acts of deliverance and salvation and judgment on His enemies. The ultimate expression of God's righteousness is seen in the coming of Christ, who works both salvation and judgment. Righteousness is also demanded of man for fellowship with God. This is obtained first through simple faith in Christ resulting in the righteousness of Christ being accounted to the believer (Romans 3:21-22). Then the righteousness of God is gradually incorporated into the practical life of the believer through the ministry of the indwelling Spirit (Romans 8:4; Ezekiel 36:26f).

This topic is from the Lockman Foundation.