The Everlasting Righteousness, Or, How Shall Man Be Just with God?

by Horatius Bonar

Book by

Genres: Theology, Christian, Nonfiction, Christian Living, Classics, Religion

138 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1993

About the author

Horatius Bonar (19 December, 1808 – 31 May, 1889) was a Scottish churchman and poet.

The son of James Bonar, Solicitor of Excise for Scotland, he was born and educated in Edinburgh. He comes from a long line of ministers who have served a total of 364 years in the Church of Scotland. One of eleven children, his brothers John James and Andrew Alexander were also ministers of the Free Church of Scotland. He had married Jane Catherine Lundie in 1843 and five of their young children died in succession. Towards the end of their lives, one of their surviving daughters was left a widow with five small children and she returned to live with her parents. Bonar's wife, Jane, died in 1876. He is buried in the Canongate Kirkyard.
In 1853 Bonar earned the Doctor of Divinity degree at the University of Aberdeen.

He entered the Ministry of the Church of Scotland. At first he was put in charge of mission work at St. John's parish in Leith and settled at Kelso. He joined the Free Church at the time of the Disruption of 1843, and in 1867 was moved to Edinburgh to take over the Chalmers Memorial Church (named after his teacher at college, Dr. Thomas Chalmers). In 1883, he was elected Moderator of the General Assembly of the Free Church of Scotland.

Reviews

[Vanessa Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

This little book was jam-packed with glorious truth. Bonar's writing is beautiful but clear at the same time. I loved the focus on Christ and Him alone. In fact, one of the chapters is entitled, "Not Faith, But Christ," in which Bonar explores the truth that our faith, though the link to Christ, is not in the end what saves us. Christ saves us, no matter how weak or trembling our faith is, as long as it is placed in Him. He is our salvation, the strength of our faith is not. Another topic Bonar wrote upon was assurance of salvation. I've attended church my whole life, but I don't remember hearing one sermon about actually knowing you're saved. Yes, we are to examine ourselves, to make sure we're in the faith, but we are also called to rest in the finished Work of Christ and cling to His Word that says we are not condemned if we believe on Him. Bonar pointed out that lack of assurance and the teachings of constantly questioning your salvation follows after Roman Catholic teaching of the Reformation era. The Catholics wanted their followers in fear and doubt as to their soul's state so the church could demand whatever they wished of their followers. Bonar ends the chapter: "It was intended not merely that he [the believer] should be saved, but that he should know that he is saved, and so delivered from all fear and bondage and heaviness of heart."

I can't say I fully agree with Bonar on every point, but overall, I recommend this book to every Christian. We always need to setting before our eyes the all-sufficiency of Christ and His righteousness!

[James Hogan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second Review, December 10th, 2025
A beautiful book on the righteousness of Christ and its implications for those who put their trust in him. I was looking for a little book on Christ that would aid my devotion and meditation on him, and this certainly fit the bill! Its subtitle is “How shall man be just with God” and most certainly this book answered the question with the answer being self-evident from the title alone. At times we can trust to our own efforts or goodness, even if we would not put it quite so boldly out loud. Yet at times we often think we have done a bit of what is necessary to give God cause to love us, true? This book is a wonderful corrective to such thinking, driving one to the cross. Only in Christ can man be just with God. Only through Christ and his righteousness, for we have naught to bring! We are blind indeed and those who know such and cry out to the great Healer will surely find their eyes opened and eternal life in the bargain. The majority of this book deals with the subject of Christ’s righteousness and the imputation of such to the sinner who puts his trust in Christ. I probably read this a bit too quickly and I think it would well repay a slower reading. The author did add a few chapters at the end on both the significance and result of the resurrection of Christ as well as the necessary outcome of holy living for the one who is truly covered by the righteousness of Christ. These are “side issues” as it were to the main subject of the justification of the sinner through Christ’ righteousness, yet I’m still grateful that the author decided to add these chapters as they are simply magnificent and heart stirring in all their grandeur. Meditating on the resurrection of Christ was true balm for my soul!! I probably have said too many words on this one already. It’s a small book, the chapters perfectly sized for a short evening’s reading. Though this book may come across a bit dated to some (written over a hundred and fifty years ago now), I’m still most grateful I read this and shall certainly pick it up again when I am seeking to be encouraged and reminded of why I am so confident of that hope which I call my own.

First Review, November 10th, 2020
A little while back I was looking for a nice, short little Puritan book and was saddened to find I didn't have any unread ones left on my shelf. Then I discovered this one crammed in the corner and realized I had not read this one yet! This book was wonderful. It is very short and thus an easy read (although I recommend breaking it up unto multiple sessions, a chapter at a time). This book encouraged my soul. I'll confess that the first part of the book seemed a bit dry and I had the thought, "Yes, yes, I know all this. Get on with it." But the more I read, the more pondering I did of what Christ has done for us, and the more my heart was warmed. This book talks of Jesus, what He did for those who would believe on Him, and then what that means for those aforesaid. How can we be right with God? This book clearly and simply explains. The last few chapters were by far my favourites, discussing the aftereffects of our justification before God. The chapter "The Pardon and the Peace Made Sure" was beautiful. So encouraging, balm to the soul. There is much truth in this book, truth leading to joy in the heart that knows Christ. We must ponder these truths more often!!

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

The only reason I can't give this book 5 stars is because it got repetitive. The doctrine and message was spot on, though. It was helpful to read the distinctions between what Christ's blood does, what His death does, and what the resurrection does in our justification. He ends the book with listing out what the life of a believer is characterized by, which I thought tied the book together very nicely.

Overall, I'd recommend this book because it puts rock under our feet and points us to Christ as our only assurance.

[Jill Odens · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book to read and then read again. It is rich and meaty. It is clear, applicable, and encouraging. I shall keep this one on my short list of books to. Be read regularly!

[Matthew Prydden · Rating 5 out of 5]

The righteousness of Christ given to us in salvation. To quote a favourite Bob Dylan song of mine: "Every one of them words rang true, And glowed like burning coal, Pouring off of every page, Like it was written in my soul." Bonar is quickly establishing himself in my list of top 5 favourite theologians.

[Forbes · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is repetitive at times, but every time he hammered something home, I remember Martin Luther's quote: "I preach Justification by faith every Lord's Day because every week they forget it." It is really a thorough explanation of the legal/forensic element of the Gospel. As I read it, I couldn't help but keep thinking it would make a perfect gift for an unconverted lawyer or legislator, because it is written in terms they would appreciate, and yet its simple enough for anyone to understand, and no doubt we need the teaching of this book to be restored in our time. If only more children growing up had understood the Gospel the way Bonar understood it, we may not have so many forsaking the church as we do. The Gospel has to make sense to be believed, and Bonar certainly makes sense of it.

[Nathan Crockett · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Everlasting Righteousness by Horatius Bonar

My rating: 4.1 stars

"The Everlasting Righteousness" by Horatius Bonar is a profound and insightful exploration of Christian doctrine, specifically focusing on the concept of righteousness as presented in the Christian Gospel. Written in the 19th century by the renowned Scottish churchman and hymn writer, this book delves deeply into the theological understanding of how believers are made righteous through Christ.

Bonar's work is characterized by its depth and clarity in explaining complex theological concepts. He meticulously unpacks the doctrine of justification by faith, emphasizing the complete and perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ as the basis for our salvation. Bonar's writing is not merely academic but is deeply pastoral, aiming to offer comfort and assurance to believers who struggle with the concept of their own sinfulness and the perfection required by God.

One of the notable strengths of "The Everlasting Righteousness" is Bonar's ability to articulate the historical and biblical context of his subject. He skillfully bridges the gap between theological doctrines and practical Christian living, making his work relevant and accessible to readers from various backgrounds. His language, though somewhat archaic given the era of its writing, is rich and poetic, filled with profound insights and uplifting truths.

Moreover, Bonar's exploration of righteousness is comprehensive, covering aspects like the nature of Christ's work, the role of faith, and the relationship between law and grace. He emphasizes that righteousness is not something achieved by human effort but received through faith in Christ. This central theme resonates throughout the book, offering a clear and biblically grounded perspective that is both encouraging and challenging.

However, readers should approach this book understanding its historical context. Bonar writes from a distinctly Reformed perspective, and his interpretations are rooted in the theological and cultural milieu of his time. While this perspective enriches the book, it may also present challenges to readers from different theological backgrounds or those unfamiliar with 19th-century religious discourse.

In summary, "The Everlasting Righteousness" by Horatius Bonar is a classic theological work that offers a rich, nuanced, and encouraging exploration of one of Christianity's core doctrines. It is a book that has the potential to deepen the reader's understanding of Christian salvation and the incredible gift of righteousness we receive through faith in Christ. Its enduring relevance and the depth of insight make it a valuable read for anyone interested in the foundations of Christian belief and the profound grace that lies at the heart of the Gospel.

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This might have been titled Eternal Justification if written in modern times. Christian, Horatius Bonar wants you to know that God has reconciled righteousness to you and reconciled you to God.

“As sin is too great an evil for any but God to deal with, so is righteousness too high for man to reach; too high for any but God to bring down and place at our disposal.”

The assurance of this comes not from your faith but from the greatness of the object of your faith.

“Faith is not our physician; it only brings us to the physician. It is not even out medicine; it only administers the medicine, divinely prepared by Him who ‘healeth all our diseases.’”

Bonar dwells much on this concept of assurance, calling the doctrine of uncertainty “one of the worst lies of Popery”, in order to stress the value of Christians dwelling not on their good works or evidence of righteousness as if in a “present purgatory” but instead on Jesus Christ. Uncertainty looks inward for peace and finds none. Assurance comes from making “Christ, not self, the basis and center of his new being.”

He later tempers this by saying, “Peace does not save us, yet it is the portion of a saved soul. Assurance does not save us; and they have erred who have spoken of assurance as indispensable to salvation. For we are not saved by believing in our own salvation, nor by believing anything whatsoever about ourselves. We are saved by what we believe about the Son of God and His righteousness.”

He balances all of this with this concluding paragraph: “They who know not what it is to be ‘accepted in the Beloved,’ and to ‘rejoice in hope of the glory of God,’ may fall asleep. He dare not; he knows what he is risking, and what one hour of slumber may cost him; and he must be wakeful. He does not make election his opiate, and say, I am safe; but this only makes me doubly vigilant, that I may not dishonor Him who has saved me; and even though I may not finally fall away, I know not how much I may lose by one day's slothfulness, or how much I may gain by maintaining that watchful attitude to which, as the expectant of an absent Lord, I am called, ‘Blessed is he that watcheth’; and even though I could not see the reason for this, I will act upon it, that I may realize the promised blessedness. He who has called me to vigilance can make me a partaker of its joy. He can make my watch-tower, lonely and dark as it may seem, none other than the house of God, and the very gate of heaven.”

[Parker Bentley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has been one of my favorite books of the year. Bonar sets out to answer the question in the subtitle, "How shall man be just with God?", and the book is jam packed with biblical truths to answer. Readers will be encouraged by and reminded of the completeness and finality of Christ's sacrificial death, the righteousness that is wrought by Christ alone to his unrighteous people, and the truth that our measure of faith doesn't save us, Christ does. Would recommend this to Christians looking for a book on penal substitutionary atonement.

“Christ crucified is to be the burden of our preaching, and the substance of our belief, from first to last. At no time in the saint’s life does he cease to need the Cross.”

[Pat Phelps · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Horatius Bonar has given us a clear book of great value on the central doctrine (justification) of the church.” - Tony Reinke

With that statement, Reinke perfectly accesses the usefulness of Bonar’s book. He does an outstanding job of highlighting the doctrine. If nothing else, I would recommend using this book as an apologetic tool, particularly the last chapter. That chapter was so full of beautiful illustrations, and words, about the glory of our Father, and the joys of being in Christ.

I would highly recommend reading “The Everlasting Righteousness” by Horatius Bonar. It is worth the time and effort.

“Take up and Read” - Saint Augustine

[Davis Goodroe · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Peace does not us, yet it is the portion of a saved soul.” This book was a timely reminder to my soul that I am just with God, thanks to Christ’s work at Calvary. Though only 120 pages, it makes it very clear that righteousness is imputed to us through faith in what Jesus did. It does a good job of addressing pre-Reformation misconceptions that we must work for our salvation. I’m sure it will be one that I return to many times in my life.

[Sarah Bodaly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is considered by many to be the best defense / explanation on justification by faith alone. The doctrine was clear and sound, though it did get a little repetitive at times. (But don’t we all need a bit of review and reminders from time to time, especially on things that are a deeper subject?)

[Nick Yerardi · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The dying Christ completed the work for us from which all the above benefits flow (washing, pardoning, reconciling, justifying). The risen Christ but sealed and applied what, three days before, He has done once for all.”

Front to back, we get an extensively thorough examination into the significance of the Cross, Christ’s righteous imputed to us, and the certain knowing of our peace with God.

[Bill Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Of all books I've read, this one is probably the most pure, concise, rich, and heart-empowering portrayals of the gospel of Christ. Just finished my second time through it, 15 years after the first time, and will go at it again.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are many gems here. Though Bonar can get a bit wordy, especially in the final chapter or two, this is a delightful book of reminders and advice for the Christian life.

[Micah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an incredible book! It captures the heart of the Christian faith and few do it as beautiful as Bonar. I agree with other reviews that that towards the end it seems to get repetitive.

[Pedro.Lopes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Um Hino à doutrina da "Justificação pela Fé".

[Lara Ryd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent—especially chapter 7, “Not Faith, but Christ.”

[Coyle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although he's a vastly better at writing hymns that at writing books, this is still worth a once-over. Bonar goes through some of the basics of the faith as they relate to, well, everlasting righteousness. While his writing can at times be a bit elaborate, or even labyrinthine, he's still a solid enough writer.

A sampling of quotes (sorry, I read the Kindle edition so no page numbers):

"Man, in his natural spirit of self-justifying legalism, has tried to get away from the cross of Christ and its perfection, or to erect another cross instead, or to set up a screen of ornaments between himself and it, or to alter its true meaning into something more congenial to his tastes, or to transfer the virtue of it to some act or performance or feeling of its own. Thus the simplicity of the cross is nullified, and its saving power is denied.

For the cross saves completely, or not at all. Our faith does not divide the work of salvation between itself and the cross. it is the acknowledgement that the cross alone saves, and that it saves alone. Faith adds nothing to the cross, nor to it healing virtue. It owns the fullness, and sufficiency, and suitableness of the work done there, and bids the toiling spirit cease from its labors and enter into rest. Faith does not come to Calvary to do anything. It comes to see the glorious spectacle of all things done, and to accept this completion without a misgiving as to its efficacy. it listens to the 'it is finished!' of the Sin-bearer, and says 'Amen.' Where faith begins, there labor ends..."

"It is in simply believing--feeble as our faith may be--that we are invested with this righteousness. For faith is no work, nor merit, nor effort; but the cessation from all these ,and the acceptance in place of them of what another has done--done completely, and forever. The simplest, feeblest faith suffices; for it is not the excellence of our act of faith that does aught for us, but the excellence of Him who suffered for sin, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God. His perfection suffices to cover not only that which is imperfect in our characters and lives, but that which is imperfect in our faith, when we believe on His name."

"We are never done with the cross, nor ever shall be. Its wonders will be always new, and always fraught with joy."

"We are bought with a price, that we may be new creatures in Christ Jesus. We are forgiven, that we may be like Him who forgives us. We are set at liberty and brought out of prison, that we may be holy. The free, boundless love of God, pouring itself into us, expands and elevates our whole being, and we serve Him, not in order to win His favour, but because we have already won it in simply believing His record concerning His Son."

"To take the sacrificial element out of the blood, is to make peace with God impossible, because unrighteous. To substitute the church for Christ, or the priest for the herald of pardon, or the rite for the precious blood, or the sacrament for the living Christ upon the throne, or the teachings of the church for the enlightenment of the Holy Ghost--this is to turn light into darkness, and then to call that darkness 'light.'"

[Brian Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bonar presents the reader with solid meat regarding the Bible's teaching about righteousness in Christ. The book focuses on the justification side of things, but sanctification is not neglected. But this book is no mere treatise. It is full of pastoral exhortation as well.

[Brian Thatcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great quick read on what Christ accomplished. A Christian is not saved by anything other than Christ and his once and for 'all' work.

[Nathan Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

God’s standard? The perfect righteousness of Christ reckoned to us. Receive Christ’s perfect righteousness by faith and it will be given!