Just And Justifier

…being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed, to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. 

Romans 3:24-25 

Salvation is, from start to finish, the work of God. Because it is, all the elements of salvation originate with Him and proceed according to His plan. This is why when Paul makes the thesis statement we have been considering he articulates what God has done all the way along the line to effect redemption. He is speaking of God’s righteousness. Sin is a fact. It has existed in humanity from shortly after the creation of our first parents. God is righteous and His character is to be just. He must address the issue of sin. He cannot ignore it or behave as if sin does not matter. Also, His character is to be merciful and gracious. He wants to justify. How can He address sin with justice and justify sinners? Christ is the answer. In the Person and work of Christ, God has revealed His righteousness, His mercy, and His grace. Thus, He demonstrates that He is just and by sacrificing His Only Begotten Son, He can also be the justifier of all those who believe. He acts in the wholeness of the integrity of His character. Christ is wholly committed to this campaign. His life demonstrated God’s righteousness in that He fulfilled the law in precept. His death demonstrated God’s righteousness in that He paid the penalty the law exacts for sin. 

Great God of Wonders, 
we rejoice at Your grand plan of salvation. 
We praise You that You are  
both just and justifier. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning