Justified 34.46 δικαιόωa; δικαίωσιςa, εως f; δικαιοσύνηb, ης f: to cause someone to be in a proper or right relation with someone else—‘to put right with, to cause to be in a right relationship with.’ Louw, J. P., & Nida, E. A. (1996). Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament: based on semantic domains. New York: United Bible Societies.

JUSTIFICATION for SALVATION Two Schools of Thought You earn it by works of the law OR Its given to you by faith in Christ

“Judaizers” of the 1st Century Many Jews by the first century had a view bent on being justified by their works of the law. They insisted that Gentiles be circumcised. Acts 15:1 This was Paul’s rebuke against Peter and an illustration to condemn such. Gal. 2:14-16, 5:4-5 Such was the case at large among Judaizers that warranted Paul’s teaching the church at Rome.

Theme of Romans “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.”” Romans 1:16–17

The case for justification by faith The first three chapters of Romans Paul declares EVERYONE guilty of sin and that those who live by faith in Jesus Christ would be saved. Now, Paul is ready to use the example possible to illustrate his point that justification for salvation is by faith in Christ and not by works of the law.

Abraham: Justified by faith What is said about Abraham? Vs. 1-2 If he was justified by works… he could boast. V. 2 Such is not the case (v. 2). Cp. Rom. 3:23-28 So, what does the Scriptures say? Vs. 3-4 Abraham believed God and it (belief) was accounted to him for righteousness. Gen. 15:1-6 It is by faith, in order that it be in accordance with grace. Cp. Rom. 4:16-25

Is there a contradiction? Romans 4:5 James 2:24 “But to him who does not work but believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness,” (Romans 4:5) “You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only.” (James 2:24).

Romans vs. James? Paul was declaring how one is justified in their salvation: it was a matter of faith in Christ, not works of law. James was declaring what kind of faith was justified before God: a living faith, not a dead faith.

How does this affect you and me? Don’t think or say “I don’t know if I’ve done enough to be saved”. If you (a Christian) have been saying this, stop it. Salvation is God’s gift to you as Promised since Abraham! Don’t shrink in your faith: remember Abraham! Ensure your faith in Christ is alive and well!