The process of divine justification is a one-time event, not to be confused with ongoing sanctification. Faith in Christ results in the gift of righteousness and a declaration of righteousness before God, not by human works. Justification is a judicial act of God, pardoning and accepting the believer as just through Christ's righteousness. This righteousness is imputed, not imparted, and believers are simultaneously righteous and sinners.
Tag: forensic justification
The Purposeful Suffering of Christ: A Look at Isaiah 53
It is in the understanding of the suffering and death of Christ that the sinner appreciates God’s great love and the price that was paid for our salvation. Christ suffered in our place, bearing the penalty that rightfully belongs to us. Scripture tells us that “Christ also died for sins once for all, the just for the unjust, so that He might bring us to God” (1 Pet 3:18a). Perhaps no section of Scripture in the Old Testament bears greater testimony to this truth than Isaiah 52:13 through 53:12, in which the prophet reveals the Messiah as the Suffering Servant.
God’s Righteousness at the Cross
The subject of the cross addresses God’s righteousness, man’s sinfulness, and Jesus’ substitutionary death which satisfied God’s righteous demands toward our sin and reconciles us to the Father. Certainly other characteristics of God are seen at the cross such as love, mercy, and grace; however, this article will primarily be concerned with His attribute of righteousness. The cross makes sense when we see it in connection with God’s attribute of righteousness.
The Doctrine of Simultaneity
Too often Christians struggle with understanding their position in Christ and why they continue to sin after salvation. The doctrine of simultaneity addresses this very relevant and practical doctrinal truth.