Justification: A Study in RomansSample

What does it say?

Jesus died for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.

What does it mean?

Paul described God as an accountant and a person’s life as a ledger. According to Romans 1:18-3:20, mankind has been declared morally and spiritually bankrupt. God credits the person of faith and belief with righteousness, balancing the books. Both David and Abraham were counted as righteous apart from their actions, spiritual heritage, or ability to keep the law. Abraham trusted God wholeheartedly and was credited as righteous in God’s sight based on faith in God’s promises. Salvation has always been by grace through faith.

How should I respond?

How would you react if you were going through bankruptcy and a billionaire linked your account to his personal fortune, removing all debt and giving you boundless resources? The only requirement would be faith in the value and ability of his money to settle your accounts. Paul ends today’s passage with a promise “for us who believe in Him.” As a follower of Christ, God’s righteousness has been placed into your account, and all sin was removed from your ledger. Are you, like Abraham, totally dependent on God with unwavering belief? Righteousness can’t be earned; it’s a free gift!