Justification
Acts 13:39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things, from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Romans 3:24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
Sin is not just a set of wrong actions; it is a condition that separates us from God. Under the Law of Moses, despite its divine origin and purpose, no one could achieve righteousness. The law highlighted our shortcomings and our inability to save ourselves.
But Acts 13:39a brings us the good news: "Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin." This freedom is not something we earn; it is a gift received through faith in Jesus Christ. It is through Him, and Him alone, that we are justified.
This justification means being declared righteous in the sight of God. It is a legal term, signifying that our status before God has changed because of Jesus' sacrificial death and resurrection.
In Romans 3:24 we are reminded that we are "justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus." Grace is the unmerited favor of God. It is given to us not because of our works but because of God's love and mercy.
This grace was demonstrated supremely on the cross where Jesus took upon Himself the penalty for our sins. His resurrection is the confirmation of our justification, proving that the power of sin and death has been broken.
What does this mean for us today?
Firstly, it means peace with God. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace is not merely an absence of conflict but a restored relationship with our Creator. We are no longer under condemnation but are accepted and loved as His children.
Secondly, justification leads to a transformed life. The freedom from sin that Acts 13:39a speaks of is not just a legal status but an invitation to live in the newness of life. As justified believers, we are called to reflect the righteousness of Christ in our daily walk, not as a means to earn God's favor but as a response to the grace we have received.
Lastly, justification gives us hope. It assures us that our future is secure in Christ. Romans 8:30 says, "And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified." Our journey does not end with justification; it leads to glorification, where we will fully experience the presence and glory of God.
In conclusion, justification is a divine declaration of our righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift of grace that frees us from the power of sin, grants us peace with God, transforms our lives, and secures our eternal hope.
Let us live as people who are justified, not by our merits, but by the boundless grace of God. And let us share this message of hope and freedom with a world that desperately needs to hear it.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, thank you for your grace of justification we receive through Christ Jesus your son.
3. Lord, grant us the grace to live according to your will and the newness of our faith in Christ Jesus.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name. Amen.