According to the Gospel of Luke, righteousness can be achieved through obeying the commandments and does not require Jesus' vicarious death.

In the Gospel of Luke, the description of Zechariah and Elizabeth as 'righteous' and 'blameless' does not imply that they were without sin. The context reveals that Zechariah was reprimanded for his lack of belief, indicating that righteousness involves more than just external adherence to the law. It requires an inner faith and relationship with God. Moreover, the Apostle Paul clarifies in Galatians that if righteousness could be attained through the law, then Christ's sacrifice would be unnecessary. This highlights that while the law was important, it was ultimately insufficient for salvation. Instead, true righteousness is granted through faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the law and offers grace. Thus, the apparent contradiction between Luke and Paul is resolved when we understand that both affirm the necessity of faith and the role of Christ in salvation. Zechariah and Elizabeth's obedience was part of their faith journey, which ultimately points to the need for a savior. The righteousness they displayed was a precursor to the complete righteousness that comes through Christ alone.