The following articles are related to the topic of JUSTIFICATION

JUSTIFICATION: By Faith or Works?

Is justification from sin by faith or works? Does it result from neither, one as opposed to the other, or both? One would expect that such a fundamental question could be answered clearly and confidently, with a united declaration, by those who profess a devout regard for the testimony of the Scriptures. Sadly, such is not the case. The more ... read more »

Justified by Faith

The text is thrilling beyond the human tongue to express: Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; through whom also we have had our access by faith into this grace wherein we stand; and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5:1-2). The Exegesis Bible passages brim with inspired ... read more »

Does Divine Justification Exclude Human Obedience?

A friend insists that the word 'justified' in the New Testament is in the passive voice, therefore, it is something that God does, not man. Therefore, a human action, such as baptism, could be no part of the justification process. Is this correct?" Your friend's argument could not be more incorrect. While the passive form "justified" emphasizes the fact that ... read more »

Can a Man Justify God?

"What is the meaning of the phrase, 'justified God,' in Luke 7:29? Isn't God just already? How could man possibly 'justify' God?" First, let us take a look at the full text in which the phrase is found. "I say unto you, among them that are born of women there is none greater than John: yet he that is but ... read more »

Does the Case of David and Bathsheba Justify Adultery Today?

David was one of the remarkable men of the Old Testament. He was a capable musician and beloved poet. He excelled as a military leader and king. And as "a man after God's own heart" he was an exceptional religious leader. Yet, in spite of his illustrious achievements, Israel's greatest king was not without some grievous faults - not the ... read more »

Do the Events at Cana Justify the Worship of Mary?

"In John 2, at the wedding feast of Cana, Mary asked Jesus for a favor and he complied. Does that not show her power over him and hence justify the praise and worship of her?" Such a conclusion is a vast "stretch," far beyond the bounds of both scripture and logic. Let us give consideration to the following factors. Mary ... read more »

Acts 11:21,24 – “A Great Number that Believed Turned unto the Lord”

It is rather well known that many within the community of "Christendom" (i.e., professed Christianity) allege that the sole condition for pardon in the divine plan of redemption is "faith." The Discipline of the Methodist Church states: "Wherefore, that we are justified by faith only is a most wholesome doctrine, and very full of comfort" (Art. IX).Article V of Hiscox's ... read more »

Logic and the Plan of Salvation

In his classic work, Biblical Hermeneutics, Milton S. Terry, one-time Professor at the Garrett Biblical Institute, declared there is a "general harmony" which pervades the entire Scriptures. Consequently, "no single statement or obscure passage of one book can be allowed to set aside a doctrine which is clearly established by many passages" (1890, 449). This procedure is called "the analogy ... read more »

The Sinner’s Prayer — Is It Biblical?

"Ministers frequently tell lost people that they need to 'pray the sinner's prayer.' Exactly what is this 'sinner's prayer'? Is this prayer biblically based? If not, what is its origin?" The so-called "sinner's prayer" is a popular phenomenon in Protestant circles. It is employed at the conclusion of various denominational "revival" services in appeals to convince sincere people to "get ... read more »

The Role of “Works” in God’s Plan of Redemption

Most Protestants, reacting adversely to the "works system" of Roman Catholicism, have adopted the extreme (and unscriptural) view that works play no role whatever in human salvation. Some allege that salvation is on the basis of "faith alone," while others (e.g., radical Calvinists) argue that God chose the redeemed before the world began, and that redemption, therefore, is entirely unconditional. ... read more »