In this study, we will delve into one of the deepest and theologically rich passages of the New Testament: Romans 5:1. Paul's letter to the Romans is full of pivotal teachings and in this verse, he discusses one of the fundamental concepts of Christianity: justification by faith. We will explore the meaning of this justification and how it grants us peace with God.
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.Paul is reminding us that we have been justified by faith. Justification is a legal act by which God deems us righteous based on our faith in Jesus Christ. This does not mean we are perfect, but that our guilt has been removed. This brings us peace with God, a peace that can only be achieved through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Biblical Examples
- Abraham was justified by faith, not by works (Romans 4:2-3). The doctrine of justification by faith is central in Romans. In this passage, Paul uses Abraham as an example of justification by faith. He argues that if Abraham were justified by his works, he would have a reason to boast, but not before God. According to Scripture, 'Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.' Thus, it was Abraham's faith in God, not his works, which justified him.
- Paul argues that faith is counted as righteousness (Romans 4:5). This verse reinforces Paul's central message in Romans about justification by faith. He states that to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness. Therefore, it is faith in Christ, not works, that justifies us before God.
- Justification by faith brings peace with God (Romans 5:1). Paul emphasizes that as a result of justification by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. This peace refers to reconciliation with God, which was achieved through Christ's redemptive work on the cross. Therefore, faith in Christ not only justifies us, but also reconciles us with God.
Complementary Verses
Romans 3:28
... Justified by faith apart from works of the law ...In Romans 3:28, Paul emphasizes that justification is independent of the works of the law. Our base verse, Romans 5:1, states that we are justified by faith. Faith, therefore, is the central element in this dynamic. Faith in Jesus Christ, His death, and resurrection, is what justifies us before God. The works of the law, although important for Christian life, do not have the power to justify us. The law, by itself, does not save, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Salvation is a gift from God, achieved by faith in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, therefore, reinforces the necessity for a living, active faith that leads us to experience peace and reconciliation with God.
Galatians 2:16
... Justified by faith in Christ, not by works ...Galatians 2:16 supports Paul's teaching in Romans about justification by faith. The apostle reinforces that justification is not achieved by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. It is only through faith in Christ that we are deemed righteous before God. This truth is central to the understanding of the gospel and connects directly to the base verse of Romans 5:1. Justification by faith is what allows us to have peace with God, as it is through it that we are reconciled with the Father. Paul reaffirms here the centrality and importance of faith for the Christian experience.
Ephesians 2:8-9
... Saved by grace through faith, and not by works ...Ephesians 2:8-9 presents one of Paul's clearest declarations about salvation by grace through faith. The apostle states that salvation is not a result of our works, but is a gift from God. This aligns perfectly with the teaching of Romans 5:1, which highlights justification by faith as a means to have peace with God. Justification by faith is an expression of God's grace, which gives us the gift of salvation. Thus, Paul emphasizes that salvation is a divine initiative, not a result of human effort. Faith is the means by which we welcome this saving grace from God.
The biblical examples presented illustrate the central doctrine of justification by faith as expounded by Paul in the letter to the Romans. They highlight that it is faith, not works, that justifies us before God. The example of Abraham serves to illustrate this principle.
The central lesson we can draw from these examples is that justification comes through faith in Christ, not through our own actions or merits. This truth frees us from the need to try to earn our salvation through our own works and leads us to trust entirely in Christ for our justification.
Lastly, justification by faith not only declares us righteous before God, but also brings us peace and reconciles us with God. This is a powerful message of hope and grace that should inspire all believers to live by faith in Christ.
Practical Application
Finding Peace with God through Faith
The base verse teaches us that justification and peace with God are achieved through faith in Jesus Christ. This means that despite our flaws and sins, faith can cleanse us and bring us peace. In practice, we can apply this lesson in our lives by approaching God with a repentant heart, ready to believe and trust in His mercy. When we make mistakes, instead of distancing ourselves from God out of shame or guilt, we should seek refuge in Him, believing that He is able to forgive us and reconcile us with Himself.Living out Faith in Daily Life
Faith in Jesus Christ is not something static, but a daily journey. It's important to remember that justification by faith is not a license to sin, but a call to live in accordance with Christ's teachings. Therefore, in all our actions and decisions, we should strive to reflect God's love and mercy. This can be demonstrated through acts of kindness, forgiveness, patience, and love for our neighbor.Sharing the Justification by Faith
Justification by faith is a precious truth that should be shared. A practical way to do this is through our testimony. We can share with others how faith in Jesus Christ has transformed us, forgiven us, and reconciled us with God. This can encourage those who are struggling with guilt or sin to seek justification and peace in God.