The Reformation doctrine of justification

The Reformation doctrine of justification

The essential elements of the Reformation doctrine of justification:

 

1. Christ's active and passive obedience

 

2. Justification is an undeserved gift of grace that does not depend on anything in the one justified.

 

3. The work of Christ is imputed to the sinner.

 

4. The justified person is in the judgement of God as perfect as Christ himself.

 

5. Faith is not meritorious, but is the only instrument by which justifying grace is received.

 

6. The good works of Christians always accompany justifying faith, but are not part of justification.

 

 

[W. Robert Godfrey, "The Pattern of Sound Doctrine"]