Justified By Faith
"Justified by faith" is a central theological concept in the New Testament, particularly emphasized in the writings of the Apostle Paul. To be justified means to be declared righteous in the sight of God. In Romans 3:28, Paul states, "For we hold that one is justified by faith apart from works of the law." This indicates that faith, rather than adherence to the Mosaic Law or human effort, is the means through which believers are reconciled to God. This doctrine underscores the grace of God, as it affirms that salvation is a gift that cannot be earned.The concept is further explored in Romans 5:1, where Paul writes, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This highlights the transformative effect of justification; it not only secures a right relationship with God but also grants believers peace and assurance of their standing before Him. The message of justification by faith is foundational to Christian belief, illustrating that faith in Jesus Christ's sacrificial death and resurrection is the only pathway to salvation, as echoed in Ephesians 2:8-9, which emphasizes that we are saved by grace through faith, not by our own works.