The sermon centers on the critical distinction between religious zeal and saving knowledge, drawing from Romans 10:2–4 to illustrate how the Israelites, despite their fervent devotion, lacked true understanding of God's righteousness and instead sought to establish their own through works. The preacher, reflecting on his own life, reveals a personal journey marked by religious performance, spiritual pride, and deep anxiety over salvation—built on a foundation of self-effort rather than faith in Christ's finished work. Through vivid personal anecdotes, including childhood fears of hell, addiction to television, and a false sense of righteousness, he exposes the danger of misplaced confidence and the need for a radical shift from self-reliance to simple trust in Christ alone. The turning point comes through exposure to the gospel of grace, particularly through the preaching of Ian Paisley and S.B. Cook, which led him to abandon his 'filthy rag' righteousness and embrace Christ's imputed righteousness by faith. The message culminates in a powerful call to abandon all self-justification and simply look to Jesus, who has paid the full price for salvation, offering hope and peace to all who trust in Him. json