April 29, 2023

Justification, an Act of God

Romans 5:1-5

Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

— Romans 5:1

Justification is a legal act of God. It is accomplished in God’s court and applied to our lives, all because of the finished work of Jesus. Justification is complete and final. The newest believer is just as justified as the most seasoned, faithful believer.

Paul teaches us four important truths about justification in Romans 5:1. First, God is the author of justification. We are justified not on the basis of our merits but because of the merits of Christ.

Second, we are justified through faith. In this way faith is the instrument of our justification.

Third, the fruit of justification is that we have peace with God. We are reconciled to God and reborn into the family of God.

Fourth, the agent of justification is our Lord Jesus Christ. All of these spiritual blessings are granted to us through our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Christ is our righteousness. He is our peace. In him we have abundant redemption.

Lord and God, trusting in the righteousness of Christ for my justification brings peace and comfort to my heart. My salvation depends not on me but on you. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

About the author — Hernandes Dias Lopes

Rev. Hernandes Dias Lopes is the Portuguese ministry leader for ReFrame Ministries. He also serves as director of Luz Para o Caminho (“Light for the Way”), an organization formed in partnership between ReFrame and the Presbyterian Church of Brazil. Rev. Lopes travels around the world to preach and teach the Bible. He and his wife, Udemilta (Tinha), live in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and have two children.

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