Topical Encyclopedia The concept of justification before God by faith, while fully revealed in the New Testament, finds its roots deeply embedded in the Old Testament. This doctrine, central to Christian theology, asserts that individuals are made righteous before God not by their works but through faith. The Old Testament provides numerous instances and teachings that foreshadow this principle, demonstrating its continuity throughout the biblical narrative.Abraham: The Prototype of Faith Abraham is often cited as the quintessential example of justification by faith. In Genesis 15:6, it is written, "Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness" . This verse is pivotal, as it underscores the principle that righteousness is imputed through faith. Abraham's belief in God's promises, despite his circumstances, exemplifies the faith that justifies. The Apostle Paul later expounds on this in Romans 4:3, reinforcing that Abraham's faith, not his works, was the basis of his righteousness. The Faith of the Patriarchs The patriarchs, including Isaac and Jacob, also demonstrate faith in God's promises. Hebrews 11, often referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame," highlights these figures, emphasizing that their lives were marked by faith. Although they did not receive the promises in their lifetimes, they trusted in God's faithfulness, illustrating the enduring nature of faith as the means of justification. The Law and the Prophets While the Mosaic Law was given to Israel, it was never intended as a means of justification. Instead, the Law served to reveal sin and the need for a savior. The sacrificial system, central to the Law, pointed to the necessity of atonement and the insufficiency of human efforts to achieve righteousness. The prophets, too, spoke of a righteousness that comes from God. Habakkuk 2:4 declares, "But the righteous will live by his faith" , a statement that underscores the enduring principle of faith as the means to righteousness. David and the Psalms King David, a man after God's own heart, also understood the concept of justification by faith. In Psalm 32:1-2, David writes, "Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit there is no deceit" . David's acknowledgment of forgiveness and righteousness apart from works highlights the grace of God and the role of faith in receiving it. The Suffering Servant Isaiah 53 presents the Suffering Servant, a prophetic figure who bears the sins of many. This passage foreshadows the ultimate means of justification through faith in the Messiah, who would take upon Himself the iniquities of humanity. The Servant's sacrificial role underscores the inadequacy of human efforts and the necessity of faith in God's provision for righteousness. Conclusion The Old Testament, while not explicitly using the term "justification by faith," lays the groundwork for this doctrine through its narratives, laws, and prophecies. The consistent theme is that righteousness before God is granted through faith, a principle that finds its fulfillment in the New Testament revelation of Jesus Christ. The faith of the patriarchs, the teachings of the prophets, and the sacrificial system all point to a righteousness that comes from God and is received by faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Habakkuk 2:4Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. Torrey's Topical Textbook Romans 1:17 Library The Resemblance Between the Old Testament and the New. The Doctrines of Salvation A. Repentance. B. Faith. C. ... Abraham's Offering up his Son Isaac Chapter xv Consecration to God --Illustrated by Abraham's Circumcision The Gospel the Power of God Introductory. The Critical Reconstruction of the History of the Apostolic Age. On the Comparison of the Law and the Gospel Of the Popish Mass. How it not Only Profanes, but Annihilates the ... Resources Why is justification by faith such an important doctrine? | GotQuestions.orgJustification vs sanctification'what are the differences? | GotQuestions.org What is justification? What does it mean to be justified? | 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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