Romans: Justification By Faith

This sermon unpacks Romans 3:21-31, emphasizing justification by faith as the central theme. It argues that all humans, both Jews and Gentiles, are universally guilty of sin and fall short of God's glory. Therefore, righteousness cannot be achieved through adherence to the law, but only through faith in Jesus Christ. This radical idea, especially for the law-focused Jews, hinges on God's grace and the atoning sacrifice of Jesus, who, like the scapegoat and sin offerings of the Old Testament, takes on the penalty and removes the stain of sin. Ultimately, this act of justification, being declared righteous in God's court, demonstrates God's unwavering righteousness, His justice in dealing with past and present sins, and upholds the true purpose of the law – to highlight our need for His grace and mercy.