Topical Encyclopedia Justification before God is a central tenet of Christian theology, particularly under the New Covenant established through the Gospel of Jesus Christ. This doctrine asserts that believers are declared righteous before God, not by their own works, but through faith in Jesus Christ. This justification is not merely a legal declaration but also entitles believers to a spiritual inheritance, as children of God.Biblical Foundation The Apostle Paul, in his epistle to the Romans, articulates the concept of justification by faith. Romans 5:1 states, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace with God signifies a restored relationship, which is foundational to the believer's inheritance. Inheritance Through Faith The inheritance promised to believers is both present and future. Ephesians 1:13-14 explains, "And in Him, having heard and believed the word of truth—the gospel of your salvation—you were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the pledge of our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God’s possession, to the praise of His glory." The Holy Spirit serves as a guarantee of this inheritance, affirming the believer's status as an heir. Children of God Justification brings believers into the family of God, granting them the rights and privileges of children. Galatians 3:26-29 declares, "You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ... And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise." This passage underscores the believer's identity as an heir, linked to the promises given to Abraham. The Nature of the Inheritance The inheritance believers receive is imperishable and eternal. 1 Peter 1:3-4 describes it as "an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you." This inheritance is not subject to decay or loss, reflecting the eternal nature of the life promised to those justified by faith. Joint Heirs with Christ Romans 8:16-17 further elaborates on the believer's inheritance: "The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. And if we are children, then we are heirs: heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with Him, so that we may also be glorified with Him." This passage highlights the profound truth that believers share in the inheritance of Christ Himself, participating in His glory. Conclusion Justification before God under the Gospel is a transformative act that not only declares believers righteous but also entitles them to a rich inheritance as children of God. This inheritance is secured by the Holy Spirit and encompasses both present spiritual blessings and future eternal glory. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are assured of their place in God's family and the eternal inheritance that comes with it. Torrey's Topical Textbook Titus 3:7That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Its Meaning Justification by Faith --Illustrated by Abram's Righteousness Faustus Willing to Believe not Only that the Jewish but that all ... An Analysis of Augustin's Writings against the Donatists. Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus. Resources What is the Ordo Salutis / order of salvation? | GotQuestions.orgIs salvation by faith alone, or by faith plus works? | GotQuestions.org What are the differences between Catholics and Protestants? | GotQuestions.org Justification: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Justification Before God by Faith: Does not Make Void the Law Justification Before God by Faith: Excludes Boasting Justification Before God by Faith: Revealed Under the Old Testament Age Justification Before God is the Act of God Justification Before God: Abraham Justification Before God: Illustrated Justification Before God: Paul Justification Before God: Promised in Christ Justification Before God: The Wicked Shall not Attain To Justification Before God: Typified Justification Before God: Under Law: Man Cannot Attain To Justification Before God: Under Law: Requires Perfect Obedience Justification Before God: Under the Gospel by Imputation of Christ's Righteousness Justification Before God: Under the Gospel by the Blood of Christ Justification Before God: Under the Gospel by the Resurrection of Christ Justification Before God: Under the Gospel in the Name of Christ Justification Before God: Under the Gospel is by Faith Alone Justification Before God: Under the Gospel is not of Faith and Works United Justification Before God: Under the Gospel is not of Works Justification Before God: Under the Gospel is of Grace Justification Before God: Under the Gospel: Blessedness of Justification Before God: Under the Gospel: Ensures Glorification Justification Before God: Under the Gospel: Entitles to an Inheritance Justification Before God: Under the Gospel: Frees from Condemnation Justification: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms Righteousness (442 Occurrences) Reconciliation (11 Occurrences) |
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