The Doctrine of Justification by Faith: A Cornerstone of Christianity
Justification by faith is a fundamental doctrine in Christianity, yet many Christians may be surprised to learn that it is not only found in the New Testament but also in the Old Testament. In this article, we will explore the concept of justification by faith, its significance in the Bible, and its relevance to our lives today.
A Doctrine Rooted in Scripture
The doctrine of justification by faith is rooted in Scripture, with examples of it appearing throughout the Old and New Testaments. In Genesis 15:6, we read that Abraham “believed the Lord, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” Similarly, in Psalm 32:1-2, David writes, “Blessed is the one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.”
Paul’s Emphasis on Justification by Faith
The apostle Paul places great emphasis on justification by faith in his letters, particularly in Romans and Galatians. In Romans 1:17, he writes, “For in it [the gospel] the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’” Paul’s argument is that justification by faith is the only way to achieve righteousness before God, as opposed to trying to earn it through works of the law.
The Opposite of Justification by Works
Justification by faith is the opposite of justification by works of the law. As Paul writes in Romans 3:28, “We hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” This means that our good deeds and obedience to the law cannot earn us justification before God. Instead, we are justified through faith in Christ, who took our sins upon himself and paid the penalty for them on the cross.
Faith as a Gift from God
But what about the role of faith in justification? Is it something we do, or is it a gift from God? Paul makes it clear that faith is a gift from God, writing in Ephesians 2:8-9, “For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.”
The Relationship Between Faith and Works
So, if faith is the primary means of justification, what about works? Do they play any role at all? The answer is yes, but not in the way we might think. As Paul writes in Galatians 5:6, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.” Our works are the fruit of our faith, demonstrating our love for God and our neighbor.
The Corporate Dimension of Justification
Justification by faith has a corporate dimension, as well. When we are justified through faith, we become part of the body of Christ, the church. As Paul writes in Romans 3:29-30, “Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, since God is one—who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith
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