Introduction to the Justification in Theology Series by Dr. John M. Frame

The doctrine of justification was the most important concern of the Protestant Reformation. Luther and Calvin thought that this doctrine had been largely forgotten in the Medieval Church, and they were exuberantly joyful to have rediscovered it in their time. Justification was central to the Reformers because it was central to the biblical gospel as the Apostle Paul presented it. Justification by faith is the source of our peace with God:

“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom. 5:1)

Like many church members in the medieval period, Luther went through strenuous exertions of self-examination and self-denial to achieve the kind of moral purity that he hoped God would approve. But no matter how hard he tried to become just by his own efforts, he always experienced failure, and anticipated only the harsh judgment of God’s fiery wrath. One day, however, God showed him a new way:

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.” (Eph. 2:8)

“But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. For there is no distinction. For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (Rom. 3:21-24)

At these words, the Spirit took Luther’s burden of guilt all away. What a blessed release! This message of Justification was such wonderful good news, because the message of Justification was nothing less than the message of Christ, the gospel. To be justified by grace through faith is to be justified by Christ himself. The Reformation message of justification is nothing less than the Gospel of Jesus.

Many today are confused by the term “justification” and the vocabulary of grace, faith, works, and salvation. We hope this book will provide some clarification, and much joy as readers experience, like Luther, the removal of their terrible burden of guilt and the blessing of peace with God through Jesus alone.

Dr. John M. Frame

Professor of Systematic Theology and Philosophy Emeritus

Reformed Theological Seminary