BEING JUSTIFIED

“Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law” – Romans 3:28

LIGHT FOR NOW: The law becomes helpless where faith in Christ is at work.

This verse is a summary of what Paul has written in Romans 3:21-27. It also serves as a useful, concise proof that our salvation is not, in any sense, dependent on good deeds, rituals, sacraments, or other behaviours. Previous verses made it clear: We cannot and will not be seen as righteous before God on the basis of our own efforts (Romans 3:10). However, unless God declares a person to be justified – righteous having no sin in need of punishment – that person cannot be with God. Paul has shown that nobody is able to reach this level of being justified by following the works of the law. Human beings can’t do it, we sin. Once we have sinned, the price of our sin is to be excluded from God’s glory (Romans 3:23).

Thankfully, God provides a way but only one way – for humans to be declared justified. This comes through faith and not through works of the law. Later, Paul will expand on this to further proof that this salvation is entirely on the basis of faith with no contribution or requirement of works, whatsoever (Romans 4:3; 11:6). Paul announces that through faith in christ, we can be made righteous in God’s sight. Entirely apart from the law, we can be redeemed by the atoning sacrifice of Christ’s blood, willingly shed for our sin. This gift of God’s grace instead of wrath is available to everyone Jews and Gentiles alike. This is truly good news. Romans 8:33; who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Glory! 

INSTRUCTION: Walk in the consciousness that you are justified by faith in Christ Jesus.

CONFESSION: I receive justification because I have faith in Christ, in Jesus Name.  Amen.

QUOTE: Your ability in the law remains useless until your faith in Christ is activated.

DAILY BIBLE READING: MORNING: GENESIS CHAPTER 3; EVENING: ROMANS CHAPTER 5