How does Romans 3:24 define being "justified freely by His grace"? reading the verse “and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:24) why justification is needed • Romans 3:23 states that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” • God’s standard is perfect righteousness (Matthew 5:48). • Without divine intervention every person remains under wrath (John 3:36). what “justified” means • A legal term: God declares the believing sinner righteous. • It is an instantaneous act, not a lifelong process (Romans 5:1). • Righteousness is credited, not earned (Philippians 3:9; 2 Corinthians 5:21). freely — the cost to us is zero • “Freely” translates the Greek word dorean, meaning “without cost, gratis.” • Salvation is presented as a gift, never a wage (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Any attempt to pay for it nullifies grace (Galatians 2:21). by His grace — the motive is God’s unmerited favor • Grace (charis) emphasizes God’s initiative and kindness toward the undeserving. • Titus 3:5-7 echoes this: “He saved us… according to His mercy… having been justified by His grace.” • Grace excludes boasting and secures assurance because its source is God alone. through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus — the means provided • “Redemption” (apolutrosis) pictures the release of a slave by payment of a ransom. • The ransom was Christ’s own blood (1 Peter 1:18-19). • Isaiah 53:5 and 2 Corinthians 5:21 show how His substitution satisfies justice and provides righteousness for believers. bringing it all together Being “justified freely by His grace” is God’s once-for-all declaration that the sinner who trusts in Christ is righteous, released from every charge, and accepted forever. The believer contributes nothing; God supplies everything through the redemptive work of Jesus. living in the reality of justification • Peace with God (Romans 5:1). • Freedom from condemnation (Romans 8:1). • Motivation for holy living (Titus 2:11-14). • Confidence for eternal life (John 5:24). |
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