Sermon 5: Justification by Faith

Main Scripture

• Scripture Reference: Romans 4:5
  • "To him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."

Importance of Justification

• Significance:
  • Key to understanding how a sinner may be justified before God.
  • Foundation of hope and peace.
  • Addressing common confusion and false notions about justification.

Key Objectives of the Sermon

1. Explain the general ground of justification.
2. Define what justification is.
3. Identify who are justified.
4. Discuss the terms of justification.

Ground of Justification

• Original State of Man: Holy and perfect in God’s image.
• Law Given by God: Required full and perfect obedience.
• Fall of Man: Disobedience led to sin entering the world and death by sin.
• Role of Jesus: As the second Adam, Jesus' sacrifice brought reconciliation and justification.

What is Justification?

• Not Sanctification: Justification is not about becoming righteous or holy (sanctification), but about being pardoned.
• Justification as Pardon: Forgiveness of past sins through faith in Jesus.
• God’s Just Judgment: Aligns with truth without deceiving.

Who Are Justified?

• The Ungodly: Only the ungodly, who are sinners, are justified.
• Not Based on Works: Justification is granted to those without previous righteousness or holiness.

Terms of Justification

• Faith Alone: Justification through faith in Jesus without deeds of the law.
• Nature of Justifying Faith:
  • Definition: A trust and confidence that Christ died for one's sins.
  • Immediate Effect: Pardon and reconciliation upon believing.

The Role of Faith

• Essential Condition: Faith is indispensable for justification.
• Faith vs. Works: Works before justification are not considered good in the Christian sense.
• Security in Faith: A consistent, unwavering faith in Christ’s sacrifice is necessary.

Theological Reflections

• God’s Wisdom: Justification by faith humbles humanity, focusing on God's grace.
• Faith’s Effect: Humility comes from acknowledging one’s complete dependence on Christ.

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Encouragement to embrace faith and trust in Jesus for justification, acknowledging one's own ungodliness and need for grace.

Key Takeaway

• Justification is by faith alone, highlighting God’s mercy and grace in pardoning the ungodly through Jesus Christ.