Changing Your World Podcast with Creflo Dollar
Episode Summary: "What to do When Righteousness is Under Attack"
Release Date: June 24, 2024

In this compelling episode of the Changing Your World Podcast hosted by World Changers Church International and led by Creflo Dollar, listeners are guided through a profound exploration of maintaining righteousness amidst challenges and doubts. Drawing extensively from biblical scriptures, Creflo Dollar offers insights, encouragement, and practical steps to remain steadfast in one's faith and righteousness through Jesus Christ.

1. Introduction to Righteousness Under Attack (00:00 - 07:10)

Creflo Dollar begins by addressing the emotional turmoil believers may face when their sense of righteousness is questioned. He emphasizes the fundamental truth that righteousness is not achieved through personal deeds but through faith in Jesus Christ.

Notable Quote:
"For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands." (00:07:10)

2. Understanding the Law vs. Faith (07:11 - 15:30)

Diving into Romans 3:20-31, Dollar explains that adherence to the Mosaic Law cannot attain righteousness. He highlights that the law's primary purpose is to reveal human sinfulness, not to provide a means for justification before God.

Key Points:

• Romans 3:20: No one is justified by the law; all have sinned.
• The law underscores our inability to achieve righteousness through works alone.

Notable Quote:
"The Mosaic law, which is 613 laws, simply shows us how sinful we are." (07:45)

3. Righteousness Through Faith in Jesus Christ (15:31 - 25:45)

Creflo Dollar shifts focus to the transformative power of faith in Jesus Christ as the sole means of attaining righteousness. He underscores that belief in Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection is pivotal.

Key Points:

• Romans 3:22: Righteousness is attained through faith in Jesus Christ.
• Jesus’ sacrifice removes the penalty of sin, enabling believers to be declared righteous by God.

Notable Quote:
"We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ." (15:30)

4. The Universality of Sin and Need for Jesus (25:46 - 35:10)

Addressing the universality of sin, Dollar reiterates that everyone falls short of God's glory, reinforcing the necessity of Jesus for reconciliation.

Key Points:

• Romans 3:23: All have sinned and fall short of God's glory.
• Emphasizes that salvation is available to all, regardless of background, through faith in Christ.

Notable Quote:
"All have sinned and come short of the glory of God." (25:50)

5. Jesus’ Fulfillment of the Law and Elevated Standards of Sin (35:11 - 50:20)

Through Matthew 5, Dollar illustrates how Jesus not only fulfills the law but also raises the bar, expanding the definition of sin beyond actions to intentions and thoughts.

Key Points:

• Matthew 5:21-23: Anger equated with murder in terms of judgment.
• Matthew 5:27-28: Lustful thoughts are likened to adultery.
• Demonstrates the impossibility of achieving righteousness through legalistic measures alone.

Notable Quote:
"I say unto you that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of judgment." (35:10)

6. Establishing and Maintaining Righteousness (50:21 - 70:00)

Dollar delves into Isaiah 54:14, 17, encouraging believers to establish themselves firmly in righteousness to overcome fear, oppression, and terror. He emphasizes that righteousness serves as a foundation for spiritual authority and victory over adversity.

Key Points:

• Being established in righteousness leads to freedom from fear and oppression.
• Isaiah 54:17: No weapon formed against you shall prosper because of your position in Christ.

Notable Quote:
"In righteousness shalt thou be established." (54:14) (50:21)

7. The Inseparability of Righteousness and Power (70:01 - 85:00)

Highlighting the correlation between righteousness and spiritual power, Creflo Dollar asserts that one's position in righteousness directly influences their authority and effectiveness in the Christian life.

Key Points:

• Maintaining righteousness ensures spiritual authority and the ability to rule over sin.
• Sin attempts to undermine one's established righteousness, but believers are reminded of their secured position through Christ.

Notable Quote:
"Your position in righteousness will determine your position in power." (72:35)

8. Final Exhortations and Call to Action (85:01 - 120:00)

In concluding, Dollar passionately urges listeners to solidify their faith in Jesus as the source of their righteousness. He emphasizes rejecting legalism and embracing the grace provided through Christ. Listeners are encouraged to pray, accept Jesus into their lives, and stand firm in the righteousness He bestows.

Key Points:

• Acceptance of Jesus is essential for maintaining righteousness.
• Hebrews 9:28: Jesus was offered once to take away sins, emphasizing the completeness of His sacrifice.
• Practical steps to affirm one's faith and secure righteousness.

Notable Quote:
"Jesus is my only way out of sin. Jesus is my only way to be made righteous." (115:25)

9. Encouragement to Embrace Grace and Reject Legalism (115:26 - 120:00)

Creflo Dollar wraps up by reinforcing the central theme that righteousness is a gift through faith, not a reward for works. He encourages believers to live out their faith confidently, knowing their righteousness is secured by Jesus.

Key Points:

• Emphasis on God's unmerited favor.
• Call to worship and live righteously through the power of established righteousness.

Notable Quote:
"His righteousness is your right to God's unmerited favor." (118:40)

Conclusion

Creflo Dollar’s message in this episode serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational Christian belief that righteousness is granted through faith in Jesus Christ, not through adherence to the law. By establishing oneself firmly in this righteousness, believers can overcome doubts, resist accusations, and live empowered lives free from the bondage of sin. This episode is an enriching resource for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of grace, faith, and true righteousness.

Note: Timestamps are approximate and based on the provided transcript segments. For precise timing, please refer to the original podcast episode.