Romans 3: 21-27 Justification by Faith

But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus; whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed; for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? Of works? No, but by a law of faith.

This is the crux of New Testament theology. Justification is related to salvation. Specifically it is having right standing before Father-God. Because of the sin of Adam in the garden, humans proceeding in the human race apart from Christ-Jesus are born into a sin nature. In other words, we are born separated from God. God will not tabernacle with anyone who is not holy, as He himself is holy. Therefore by placing our faith in the risen Christ Jesus, not only are our sins forgiven, but we inherit his righteousness before God and He will not receive us as His sons and daughters. With justification comes the gift of the Holy Spirit, to indwell those who are saved and to sanctify them in this sinful world until the day we are with Christ in heaven, or until He returns to us.

Daily Prayer: Father, you are very wise in your handling such a rebellious people as humans. Since we cannot come to you, you came to us in the person of Jesus Christ to set us free from our bondage and to make a place for us to be with you forever. Halleluiah Holy Father. In Jesus name I pray Amen.