How does Acts 13:38 connect with Romans 3:23-24 on justification? Setting the Scene Paul is on his first missionary journey, preaching in the synagogue at Pisidian Antioch. He takes the listeners straight to the heart of the gospel—how sinners are made right with God. That same heartbeat pulses in Romans 3. Acts 13:38 – A Declaration of Forgiveness “Therefore let it be known to you, brothers, that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.” • Through Jesus—no other mediator (Acts 4:12). • Forgiveness of sins—total removal, not partial nor probationary (Psalm 103:12). • Proclaimed—an announcement to be believed, not a ladder to climb. Romans 3:23-24 – The Universal Need and God’s Provision “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” • All have sinned—none escape the verdict. • Justified—declared righteous, a courtroom pronouncement (Proverbs 17:15). • Freely by His grace—unearned, unmerited (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Redemption in Christ—ransom paid in full (Mark 10:45). Threads that Tie the Passages Together • Same Agent: “through Jesus” (Acts 13:38) and “in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24). • Same Blessing: forgiveness in Acts; justification in Romans. Scripture treats them as two sides of one coin—sins removed and righteousness credited (2 Corinthians 5:21). • Same Audience: sinners—“brothers” in Acts, “all” in Romans. No moral class exempt. • Same Means: proclamation believed (Acts 13:39 goes on, “everyone who believes is justified”) and grace received (Romans 3:24). • Same Result: a settled status with God now, not a future hope only (John 5:24). Living in the Light of Justification • Rest—Christ’s work is finished; ours is to trust (Hebrews 4:3). • Rejoice—full forgiveness means no condemnation (Romans 8:1). • Respond—walk in newness of life, empowered by the Spirit who applied this grace (Galatians 5:16). |
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