What is Justification?

The Christian doctrine of Justification is a central tenet within Protestant theology, particularly emphasized during the Reformation. It revolves around the concept of God's gracious act of declaring a sinner righteous through faith in Jesus Christ alone. According to this doctrine, human beings are inherently sinful and incapable of achieving righteousness through their own efforts. Justification, then, is seen as an act of God's mercy and grace, where faith in Christ's atoning sacrifice becomes the means by which individuals are acquitted of their sins and reconciled with God. This doctrine highlights the imputed righteousness of Christ to believers, emphasizing that salvation is a free gift received through faith rather than earned through good works. The theological nuances and interpretations of Justification vary among Christian denominations, but its core premise underscores the transformative power of faith in Christ in the redemption of humanity.