The doctrine of justification is a deep subject and the object of study that has engaged the greatest minds of the church. Of course, it mesmerized the apostle Paul, as we have seen in this study of Romans. The 4^th century theologian Augustine, who in his early life, by his own words, was a “slave to lust,” came to understand true justification and debated against the teachings of Pelagius, who did not appreciate the complete depravity brought on by the sin of Adam in the Garden. Seminarians study these debates at length.

Martin Luther, the 16^th century monk, wrestled deeply with his own unrighteousness and inability to gain righteousness, despite his ardent and strenuous efforts to live out the law and righteousness in his life. Miserable failure left him tortured in his soul until he discovered the truth of Romans 1:17, “The just shall live by faith” (as quoted most familiarly in the KJV). So began the so-called Protestant Reformation. The church has been divided ever since, and at the core of the division is justification and how we understand it.

Lest we believe that only theologians understand this truth, we can see the outline of this great doctrine in simple form. Some call the following verses the Roman Road, the path to salvation in its simplest stated form:

All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (Rom 3:23)

The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom 6:23)

God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. (Rom 5:8)

If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved; for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation. (Rom 10:9–10)

“Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” (Rom 10:13)

While theologians debate and wrestle, children can understand it and believe. The greatest minds are challenged; the simplest minds are assured. The advantage goes to those who don’t just think about, meditate on, debate about or write on the truth of justification. The advantage goes to those who in simple childlike faith believe in the God who justifies through faith.

Lord, how can I express my gratitude to You for justifying me? You have made me righteous, not by my good works, but by Your grace. I believe You.