Doctrine of Justification

Doctrine of Justification

1. Definition: Justification is the judicial act of God whereby He declares the believer righteous at the moment of faith in Christ. It is a legal declaration, not a process of making righteous (Rom. 3:24; 5:1; Titus 3:7).
2. Justification is based on the imputation of God's perfect righteousness to the believer at salvation (Rom. 3:22; 4:3–5; Phil. 3:9b).
   1. God credits His own perfect righteousness to the believer (2 Cor. 5:21).
   2. This imputation occurs simultaneously with faith in Christ (Rom. 4:5).
3. Justification is by grace through faith alone, apart from works (Rom. 3:28; 4:4–5; Gal. 2:16; Eph. 2:8–9).
   1. No human merit or works contribute to justification (Rom. 4:2; Titus 3:5).
   2. It is a gift of God (Rom. 3:24).
4. Justification removes the barrier of sin and provides eternal security (Rom. 5:1; 8:1, 33–34).
   1. There is now no condemnation for those in Christ (Rom. 8:1).
   2. God is the justifier; no one can reverse His declaration (Rom. 8:33).
5. Justification is part of the saving work of Christ on the cross (Rom. 5:9).
   1. Christ's righteousness is imputed because His work satisfied God's justice (Rom. 3:25–26).
6. Old Testament believers were justified by faith in the revealed Word of God, looking forward to the Messiah (Gen. 15:6; Hab. 2:4; Rom. 4:3; Gal. 3:6–9).
7. Justification results in peace with God and access to grace (Rom. 5:1–2).