The concept of "Righteousness by Faith" is a central doctrine in Christian theology, emphasizing that salvation and justification come through faith in God's grace, rather than through human works or merit. As stated in Romans 3:28, "For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law," highlighting the distinction between faith and works. This idea is further supported by Ephesians 2:8-9, which declares that salvation is a gift of God, "not a result of works, so that no one may boast," and is also echoed in Genesis 15:6, where Abraham's faith is credited to him as righteousness. Through this doctrine, Christians understand that their righteousness and salvation are grounded in their trust in God's promise and grace, rather than their own efforts or achievements.
John Owen expounds on Romans 10:3-4, emphasizing that the Jews, despite their zeal for God, failed to attain righteousness because they sought it through their own works rather than through faith in Christ. He contrasts the Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness but received it through faith, hi