Joy of Justification (Romans 3:24)
Romans 3:24, Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Two brothers were spending their Saturday doing their chores, when the younger brother accidently knocked over a can of paint saturating most of the garage floor. When the older brother witnessed it, he told the younger brother, he would not tell their father if the younger brother mowed the lawn from now on. The younger brother was at first reluctant, but agreed. After a week the younger brother told his older brother that he would no longer mow the lawn. The older brother was quick to remind his younger brother of the agreement and that he would go to their father immediately. The younger brother said with joy, “Fine! I have already told dad, and he forgave me.” Justification is the redemptive act of Jesus Christ at Calvary, whereby He declares the repentant and believing sinner free of all guilt and entitled to all the blessings and responsibilities of the kingdom. Justification is that spiritual blessing whereby God removes the filthy garments of our own "good" works, pays the debt of our sins, and argues our case as defense attorney, with the resulting verdict—not guilty, entirely by the grace of Jesus Christ. If the judge acquits me, who can condemn me? If the highest court in the universe has pronounced me just, who shall lay anything to my charge? God has already announced the verdict; the person who has faith in Jesus stands acquitted. Now, we are declared righteous by the One to whom there is no further appeal (Romans 5). There are several reasons being justified brings a believer joy. Here are three. 1. Justification frees us from the fear of judgment as it relates to condemnation and the penalty of death (John 3:17-18; Romans 4:3-4). When we are justified by faith, our iniquities are forgiven, or sins are covered; and it is all done by God imputing righteousness without works. Satan loves to bring our past sins up to us. He looks for opportunities to accuse us and to haunt us with our past (Revelation 12:10). He is aware if he can consume us with guilt that he can conquer our service to the Lord. We have been fully forgiven and there is no more any condemnation (Romans 8:31-39). 2. Justification cancels out our enormous debt that we would never be able to pay. Again, imputation means a debt is owed; one is unable to pay, but the debt is satisfied when another steps in and pays the account on behalf of the debtor. If you will go to the LORD and take Christ righteousness (which is perfect) He will accredit it to your account. So, when you stand before God, you will stand before God as though you have never sinned. Not because your sinless, but because of your account. 3. Justification clothes us with robes of righteousness (I Peter 2:22; II Corinthians 5:21). Jesus Christ does not only deliver us from the pollution of sin by cleansing us; but God placed your sin upon Christ on the cross. Jesus placed your sins on His account and clothed you with His righteousness so that when you stand before the Father, He will see you as justified. Prayer: LORD, thank You for being the God that justifies. Thank You for Your gift of forgiveness of all my sins. Help me to live like someone who is truly clean and forgiven! In Jesus’ name, Amen. If this post in any way, has blessed you, please share this website and its articles with others: www.fellowshipbaptistcarrabelle.com
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AuthorDr. Blackman is passionate about helping others grow in the grace of the Lord. His devotions are centered on how to grow closer to the Lord through a personal relationship with Christ. Archives
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