How can Romans 3:28 deepen our understanding of grace in salvation? Setting the Verse Before Us “Therefore we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” – Romans 3:28 Why This Statement Is a Cornerstone of Grace • “Justified” means God declares the sinner righteous—instantly, legally, irrevocably. • “By faith” points to trust in Christ’s finished work, not effort or merit. • “ Apart from works of the law” severs any claim that obedience earns salvation. • Grace, therefore, is God’s unearned favor extended to those who believe. Grace, Not a Paycheck • Wages are earned (Romans 4:4); grace is given. • If righteousness could be gained through the law, “Christ died for nothing” (Galatians 2:21). • Ephesians 2:8-9 echoes the same melody: salvation is “the gift of God, not of works, so that no one may boast.” • Titus 3:5 underscores that rescue comes “not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy.” The Law Shows the Need; Faith Receives the Gift • Romans 3:20: “Through the law we become conscious of sin.” • Isaiah 64:6: even our best deeds are “filthy rags” before a holy God. • Faith unites us to Christ (Philippians 3:9), clothing us in His righteousness rather than our own failing attempts. • Once justified, believers are free to obey from gratitude, not to earn favor (Romans 6:14). Deepening Our Appreciation of Grace • Marvel at the sufficiency of Christ’s sacrifice—nothing to add, nothing left unpaid. • Rest from performance-driven religion; faith alone secures our standing. • Let gratitude fuel service: works become evidence of life, not the ladder to life. • Extend the same unearned kindness to others, mirroring the grace received. Living in the Light of Romans 3:28 • Preach the gospel to yourself daily: “I am justified by faith, apart from works.” • Reject condemnation when you stumble; your status rests on Christ, not perfectionism (Romans 8:1). • Cultivate humble confidence—no boasting, yet no fear (Jeremiah 9:23-24). • Share the grace message boldly: every heart still striving for merit needs this liberating truth. Romans 3:28 draws the curtain back on grace, showing salvation as a gift received, never a wage earned. Embracing this reality brings rest to the soul and glory to the God who justifies. |
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