The concept of "The Justified" in Christian theology refers to individuals who have been declared righteous by God. This declaration is not based on their own merit or works but is a result of God's grace through faith in Jesus Christ. The doctrine of justification is central to Christian soteriology and is extensively discussed in the New Testament, particularly in the writings of the Apostle Paul.

Biblical Foundation

The term "justified" is derived from the Greek word "dikaioō," which means to declare righteous. In the Berean Standard Bible, Romans 3:24-26 states, "and are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus."

Justification by Faith

The doctrine of justification by faith is a cornerstone of Christian belief, emphasizing that it is through faith in Jesus Christ that one is justified. Romans 5:1 affirms, "Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This peace with God signifies a restored relationship, made possible by the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus.

Role of Grace

Grace is the unmerited favor of God, and it plays a crucial role in justification. Ephesians 2:8-9 underscores this by stating, "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 highlights that justification is a divine gift, not something earned by human effort.

Imputed Righteousness

The concept of imputed righteousness is integral to understanding justification. It refers to the righteousness of Christ being credited to the believer's account. 2 Corinthians 5:21 explains, "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." This exchange is the basis of the believer's justified status before God.

The Law and Justification

While the Law of Moses reveals God's standards, it cannot justify humanity. Romans 3:20 states, "Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law. For the law merely brings awareness of sin." The Law serves to highlight human sinfulness and the need for a Savior, pointing to the necessity of faith in Christ for justification.

The Justified Life

Being justified has profound implications for the believer's life. Romans 6:22 describes the transformation: "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life." Justification leads to sanctification, a process of growing in holiness and conformity to the image of Christ.

Assurance of Salvation

Justification provides believers with assurance of their salvation. Romans 8:30 offers a sequence of divine actions: "And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified." This chain of events assures believers of their ultimate glorification and eternal security in Christ.

Conclusion

The doctrine of justification is a profound expression of God's love and justice, demonstrating His righteousness while providing a means for humanity to be reconciled to Him. Through faith in Jesus Christ, believers are justified, receiving the righteousness of God and the promise of eternal life.