The Heart of the Matter: Understanding Justification
As humans, we have a natural tendency to downplay the significance of God’s justice. We assume our good deeds will be enough to earn us a passing grade in God’s eyes, despite the warning that “by the works of the Law shall no flesh be justified” (Rom. 3:20). This mindset is rooted in ignorance of God’s Law and a lack of reverence for His holiness. We have become like the harlot described in Jeremiah, who has lost the ability to blush at her own sin (Jer. 6:15; 8:12).
The Doctrine of Justification: More Than Just a Theological Abstraction
Justification is not just a doctrine; it’s a deeply personal matter. It’s about understanding how we, as sinners, can stand before a holy God. The Protestant view of justification, also known as forensic justification, emphasizes that justification is a legal declaration made by God. This declaration is not based on our inherent worth or good deeds but on faith alone.
A Tale of Two Views: Protestant and Roman Catholic Understandings of Justification
While both Protestants and Roman Catholics agree that justification involves a divine declaration, they differ radically on the ground for such a declaration. Protestants believe that God declares people just who are not inherently just, whereas Roman Catholics teach that God only declares people just when they are, in fact, just. This fundamental difference has significant implications for our understanding of salvation and the role of faith in justification.
Why Justification Matters
The doctrine of justification is not just a theological nicety; it’s a vital aspect of our relationship with God. Without justification, we would be unable to stand before God’s throne, and our sin would condemn us to eternal separation from Him. Justification is what allows us to approach God with confidence, knowing that our sins have been forgiven and that we have been declared righteous in His sight.
A Personal Relationship with Jesus: Not Enough for Salvation
Having a personal relationship with Jesus is essential, but it’s not enough for salvation. Even the devil has a personal relationship with Christ, albeit one of hostility and estrangement. What matters is whether our relationship with Jesus is a saving one, characterized by faith and trust in His finished work on the cross.
The Legacy of the Reformation: A Call to Clarity on Justification
The Reformation was not just a minor skirmish over theological trivia; it was a major battle over the heart of the gospel. The Reformers recognized that justification was the key to understanding salvation, and their efforts to clarify this doctrine continue to shape our understanding of the Christian faith today. As we reflect on the legacy of the Reformation, let us remember the importance of justification and its role in shaping our relationship with God.
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