Romans 5:1 – “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith.”

Paul declares in the 5th chapter of Romans the believer’s justification as a result of their faith in Christ and the blessings which follow in its wake. Justification is an extremely important truth found in the pages of Scripture and a reality for the Christian to rest in. Some of you may be wondering, “what is justification?” Here is an excerpt from a definition in Stanley Grenz’ Pocket Dictionary of Theological Terms, “A forensic (legal) term related to the idea of acquittal, justification refers to the divine act whereby God makes humans, who are sinful and therefore worthy of condemnation, acceptable before a God who is holy and righteous.”

We our the defendant(s) inside the courtroom of God; completely guilty of sin and its righteous consequences; however, because of God’s great mercy we can become the friends of God instead of being those opposed to the Creator. Romans 3:23 makes it very clear, “For all have sinned….” , but our justification or pardon comes through the grace of God when one places their faith in Christ. As a result of justification, the believer receives peace with God and hope for the future.

What an amazing truth to ponder and rest in, even when we did not deserve friendship with God, the Creator of all things chose to reach out to us despite our rebellion. Justification is truly a gift from God of amazing and unparalleled mercy, one that is received through our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Blessings

Scott