By Faith in Christ
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:1-2).
These two verses are rich with exceeding and precious promises for every believer. Justification is one of the greatest doctrines in the Bible. It’s not that we are justified as if we had never sinned. It is that we are justified even though we do sin! Jesus did not die on the cross to enable us to walk in sinless perfection here on earth. He did not die to improve our life—He died to give us life! He died so that we would be justified with a perfect and righteous God. He died so that we would become the very righteousness of God through faith in Christ.
Because we are now justified by Christ we have peace with God. Peace that passes all understanding. Peace that calms the storm of trial and trouble. Peace that removes doubt and fear. Peace that enables us to walk with confidence toward God. There was once enmity and separation. But no longer are we the enemy of God. Through Christ we are justified. Through Christ we are reconciled to Him. Through Christ we have peace. This justification, reconciliation, and peace gives believers direct access to the Father in Heaven. Have you pondered this great truth? We are not required to petition our Heavenly Father through another person who claims special privileges. We are the sons of God by faith in Christ and have direct access to Him. Christ has opened the door. He has removed the wall of separation. Christ has given to us fellowship with the Father and with Himself. 1 John 1:3 declares, “That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ
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And now in this present life as followers of Christ we stand in this grace. Grace that helps us in time of need. Grace that teaches us the ways of holiness and righteousness. Grace that abounds for all eternity through Christ Jesus. Grace that directs us to Christ. Grace that exalts Christ. Grace that glorifies Christ. Grace that explains Christ. Grace that reveals Christ. Grace that empowers, bestows, and instructs. Marvelous and amazing grace! Unearned, undeserved, and unmerited.
Justification, peace, access, and grace gives each of us reason to rejoice and hope in the glory of God!
