Humility is a central virtue in Christian theology, often characterized by a modest view of one's own importance and a recognition of one's dependence on God. It is a quality that is highly esteemed in the Bible and is seen as essential for a faithful walk with God.

In the Old Testament, humility is frequently associated with wisdom and the fear of the Lord. Proverbs 22:4 states, "The rewards of humility and the fear of the LORD are wealth and honor and life." This verse highlights the blessings that accompany a humble heart, suggesting that humility leads to divine favor and prosperity.

The New Testament further emphasizes humility as a key attribute of Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate model for believers. Philippians 2:5-8 describes Christ's humility: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to death—even death on a cross." This passage underscores the depth of Christ's humility and His willingness to sacrifice for humanity.

Humility is also a prerequisite for receiving God's grace. James 4:6 declares, "But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: 'God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.'" This verse indicates that humility opens the door to God's grace, while pride creates a barrier.

In practical terms, humility involves a willingness to serve others, as seen in Jesus' teaching in Matthew 23:11-12 : "The greatest among you shall be your servant. For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted." This teaching encourages believers to adopt a servant's heart, prioritizing the needs of others above their own.

Justification

Justification is a foundational doctrine in Christian theology, referring to the act by which God declares a sinner to be righteous on the basis of faith in Jesus Christ. It is a legal term that signifies acquittal from guilt and the imputation of Christ's righteousness to the believer.

The Apostle Paul is the primary expositor of justification in the New Testament. In Romans 3:23-24 , he writes, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus." This passage highlights that justification is a gift of God's grace, not earned by human effort, but received through faith in the redemptive work of Christ.

Paul further elaborates on this doctrine in Romans 5:1 : "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Justification results in peace with God, restoring the broken relationship between humanity and the Creator.

The concept of justification by faith alone is central to the Protestant Reformation and is encapsulated in Ephesians 2:8-9 : "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast." This passage underscores that salvation and justification are acts of divine grace, received through faith, and not the result of human works.

In the epistle of James, the relationship between faith and works is addressed, emphasizing that genuine faith is evidenced by works. James 2:24 states, "You see that a man is justified by works and not by faith alone." This verse is often understood to mean that while justification is by faith, true faith will naturally produce good works as its fruit.

Justification is thus a transformative act, changing the believer's standing before God and initiating a life of sanctification and obedience. It assures believers of their acceptance by God and their eternal security in Christ.