“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction, for conviction, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” — 2 Timothy 3:16 (BSB)
“Little children, let no one deceive you: The one who practices righteousness is righteous, just as Christ is righteous.” — 1 John 3:7 (BSB)
“…being filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.” — Philippians 1:11 (BSB)
I grow in righteousness by regularly reading and obeying Scripture, repenting of known sin, doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. I also grow through participation in the Church’s life—receiving the Sacraments, confessing my sins, worshiping in community, and following the guidance of faithful pastors and teachers.
Canon Dr. Joel Scandrett (Trinity School for Ministry) writes, “We are declared righteous by faith, and we are formed in righteousness through obedience. Grace does not end at justification—it continues as the shaping power of sanctification.”
Bishop Keith Ackerman (Diocese of Quincy, ACNA) explains, “Righteousness is a journey, not a plateau. It is a path marked by prayer, virtue, repentance, and love. Every step is taken in response to Christ’s love.”
The 1662 Book of Common Prayer encourages growth in righteousness with its daily offices, weekly confession, Scripture readings, and Eucharistic prayers—all designed to form the heart, mind, and life in godliness. The Collect for Peace prays, “That we, being defended from all adversities, may serve thee in holiness and righteousness all our days.”
J.C. Ryle wrote, “True Christians are not content with forgiveness only—they long to grow in righteousness. They hunger and thirst for holiness, not to be seen by men, but to please their Savior.” (Holiness, 1877)
Archbishop Foley Beach (ACNA) has said, “Righteousness is not just what we believe—it’s how we live. We grow in righteousness when we abide in Christ, walk in the Spirit, and obey God with joy.”
Growing in righteousness glorifies Christ because it shows His transforming power and reflects His perfect character in the life of His people.
St. Augustine of Hippo (354–430 AD): “The righteousness of God begins with faith and is perfected in love. It grows as we die to self and live to God.” — On the Spirit and the Letter, 9
St. Basil the Great (c. 330–379 AD): “We grow in righteousness by choosing the good, resisting evil, and seeking the Lord with a humble heart. Grace teaches us, but it also trains us.” — The Long Rules, 2.5
St. John Chrysostom (c. 347–407 AD): “Practice righteousness like a craftsman. Through repetition and diligence, the soul is shaped into virtue, just as the hand learns to carve.” — Homily on Matthew, 19
An Anglican Catechism (Expanded) offers over 350+ Scripture-based answers to the core truths of the Christian faith. Each entry includes biblical texts, theological insight, and reflections from historic and contemporary Anglican voices. Rooted in the classical tradition, it is designed for teaching, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
An Ancient Worship Movement invites readers into the rich, historic worship of the early Church rediscovered through the Anglican tradition. This book calls believers into a deeper, Spirit-filled encounter with Christ through timeless practices.
St. Thomas Church
PO Box 873
Abbotsford, BC,
V2T 7A2, Canada
If you are interested in starting a St. Thomas Church in your area and or ordination path fill the contact card form.
St. Thomas Church is a Church planting movement in ancient tradition.
