By Neville Peter
For those who believe in Jesus, the robe of righteousness is the most valuable thing that we can possess. It is the only garment that the redeemed will wear inside the walls of the New Jerusalem. It is our ticket to paradise, the passport that allows members of the human family to pass from the kingdoms of this world to the Heavenly kingdom. In my mind's eye, the robe is spotless, pure and shiny the brightest white that anyone can imagine. I don't think I'm the only one who imagines that the robe of righteousness looks like this, because the apostle Paul uses similar words to describe the church that Jesus is coming four. He says in Ephesians 5:27 that Christ will present the church to himself without spot, wrinkle or blemish. The bible uses the robe as a metaphor to describe both our character and the character of Christ. It is a hard reality for us to face at times, especially since we like to think of ourselves as good people, but according to the prophet Isaiah in Isaiah 64:6, our robes just aren't clean enough. In the eyes of Heaven, just one tiny spot, just one little blemish is enough to disqualify us from entering into the gates of the Heavenly city.
If each of us were to examine our robes we would find some spots or some blemishes. I've been told that against white every spot stands out no matter how small. Being blind I'm not sure I understand fully what that means, but it is not hard to picture in my mind's eye. When we compare our robes to the spotless robe of Christ we will realize that the standard is much too high. There is just no way we could make our robes that clean. In Fact as the prophet Isaiah says, our robes are filthy rags compared to Christ's. I believe this is the reason why our robes must first be removed completely before Christ's robe can be placed on us. While talking with the scribes and Pharisees, Jesus used a different metaphor but gives us the same principle. Check it out.
And no man putteth new wine into old bottles; else the new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles shall perish. 38 But new wine must be put into new bottles; and both are preserved. Luke 5 37 KJV
I understand Jesus to be saying that righteousness requires a change in the life. Someone is not righteous just because they say they believe in Jesus, go to church or because they may believe all the socially conservative talking points. Anyone can do those things, but the Righteousness which is of God is far beyond what we can attain without Christ himself living and working in us to produce the righteousness required to have eternal life. Jesus is willing and wanting to do this for us. His robe of righteousness is free to all and its one size fit all. No sin is too great for His righteousness to cleanse. No situation is so entangled that it cannot be straightened; There is no habit so deep rooted that it cannot be overcome; there is no one so weak that he cannot be made strong. Jesus doesn't only want to cover your unrighteousness, but he is willing to take it away and give you His in its place. What wonderful news!
For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Now what does being made the righteousness of God in him look like? Here it is and remember this robe is free if we believe. 2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV
Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; 13 bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. 14 But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:12
Oh what a beautiful Robe! Lord, please give us this robe and may we be found wearing it on the day you return for your people.
Neville Peter's has written over 100 Gospel songs and has had the privilege of sharing the stage with many well known musicians and singers. He has performed at the White House, Carnegie Hall and appeared on many television programs including, TBN’s “Praise the Lord” program, I-Gospel with Alicia Williamson, Celebration of Praise with Ron Rosson, and Cynthia and Friends.