The Concept of Justification in Christianity

Key Question

• Most Important Question: How can a sinful man or woman be made right before a holy and righteous God?
• Answer: The sinner must be justified.

Understanding Justification

• Common Misunderstandings:

  • Justification is not merely forgiveness or being declared innocent.
  • It is more than just "just if I'd never sinned."

• Importance of Justification:

  • Simply removing sins is not enough to stand before a holy God.
  • Scripture Reference: "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord."
  • Justification involves the removal of sin and being declared righteous.

• Double Imputation:

  • Removal of sin and crediting of God's righteousness to the sinner.

Means of Receiving Justification

• Scriptural Basis:

  • Romans 3:24: "Justified as a gift by his grace."
  • Romans 5:1: "Justified by faith, having peace with God through Jesus Christ."

• Justification by Faith Alone:

  • Not by works or any form of payment or merit by the sinner.
  • Romans 4:4: Emphasizes that justification is not a reward for works.
  • Highlighted by the illustration of spiritual bankruptcy and debt.

• Comparison with Other Beliefs:

  • Example of Mormon belief about working for grace (illustrated with the analogy of buying an iPad).
  • Protestant View: Justified by faith alone, no merit involved.

Consequences of Justification

• Romans 8:1: "There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."
• Justification removes the condemnation that sinners deserve.

Conclusion

• Faith in the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ removes condemnation for believers.