No word is more characteristic of Paul’s vocabulary than “justified.” In Romans 3:23 we are confronted with the issue that plagues all mankind—“for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” I thank God that verse 24 follows verse 23. “Being justified is a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.”
The word “justified” means to “make right” or “to clear.” In practical terms, it means that we are acquitted in God’s courtroom. Notice that our justification is a gift. There is nothing we could do to earn it, for there is nothing we could do to atone for our own sin.
Most of the Jews of Paul’s day hoped that by rigorously observing the law, they might earn God’s favor and be pronounced righteous. The tragedy is well stated in Romans 3:10—“There is none righteous, not even one.” But now in Christ the whole process is reversed. God pronounces us “justified” as a gift of grace. You may wonder how this can be possible. The answer is found in the last phrase of verse 24—“through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus.” Jesus paid the debt for our sin.
If you have never made this wonderful discovery, ask Him right now to forgive your sins and be your Redeemer. If you have, tell someone else about this wonderful gift.
Prayer: Thank you for the gift of justification. Give me the opportunity to share this good news with another person today. Amen.