How does Romans 5:1 connect with Ephesians 2:8-9 on justification by faith? Romans 5:1—Peace with God Through Faith “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Ephesians 2:8-9—Grace That Gives, Faith That Receives “For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast.” How the Two Passages Fit Together • Same foundation—faith: • Romans 5:1 declares we are already “justified through faith.” • Ephesians 2:8 states we are “saved through faith.” • Same source—grace in Christ: • Romans highlights “our Lord Jesus Christ” as the channel of peace. • Ephesians insists the whole rescue is “the gift of God.” • Same exclusion—human effort: • Romans implies no merit in us; peace comes only because we are declared righteous. • Ephesians drives it home: “not by works.” • Same outcome—assured standing: • Romans: peace with God, ending hostility. • Ephesians: salvation secured, boasting silenced. Supporting Echoes in Scripture • Galatians 2:16—“A man is not justified by works of the law, but through faith in Jesus Christ.” • Philippians 3:9—“Not having my own righteousness from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ.” • Titus 3:5—“He saved us, not by works of righteousness that we had done, but according to His mercy.” • John 5:24—“Whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent Me has eternal life and will not be condemned.” Why This Matters Day-to-Day • Rest replaces striving—peace with God frees us from trying to earn favor. • Confidence grows—salvation hinges on Christ’s finished work, not fluctuating performance. • Humility blossoms—grace removes boasting; every good work becomes gratitude, not currency. • Fellowship deepens—shared faith in the same grace unites believers across backgrounds. Quick Recap Justification (Romans 5:1) and salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9) are two angles on the same reality: by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, we are declared righteous and ushered into lasting peace with God—no additives, no exceptions, no works required. |
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