Justified by Grace through Faith

KEY VERSE: “The life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” —Galatians 2:20

SELECTED SCRIPTURE: Galatians 2:15-21

WHAT a glorious reward of faith! From God’s standpoint it is as though, through accepting Jesus as our Redeemer, we had been restored to perfection of life such as the world will enjoy at the close of the “times of restitution.” Thus, through faith, we have a reckoned perfect life to offer in sacrifice, even as Jesus did.

Jesus was “made flesh,” “crowned with glory and honor” of perfect human nature in order that he might give himself in death a “ransom for all.” (I Tim. 2:3-6) And now his followers are invited to suffer and die with him. Their bodies also are presented in sacrifice.—Rom. 12:1

It is possible for these to offer an acceptable sacrifice to God only because they are made free from Adamic condemnation through the merit of the blood of Christ. Paul speaks of their bodies being offered a “living sacrifice.” This can be only because, through the merit of Christ’s blood, they are no longer under death condemnation, but through faith have been made alive in Christ.

Paul wrote, “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Rom. 5:1) To have peace with God implies separation from the condemned and dying family of Adam. It implies that peace with God is the heritage of those who belong to the family of God. And now, through faith in Christ, which is demonstrated by works of full consecration, we may enjoy this rich reward of faith.

“By whom also,” Paul continues, “we have access by faith into this [further] grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.” (vs. 2) Yes, faith has opened the door into this glorious hope of the divine nature, and of sharing the glory of God. “And not only so,” Paul adds, “but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience hope. And hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us.”—vss. 3-5

The Apostle Paul also wrote: “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.” Living by faith, means that faith in God and in his promises is a way of life. It is the only way that a Christian can live day by day rejoicingly, at peace with God, and enjoying the peace of God.

Living by faith, the abundant mercy and love of God are our daily portion. Living by faith is to live free from condemnation. Living by faith is to rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. Living by faith we triumph in tribulation. Living by faith we are led by the Spirit of God and enjoy the blessings belonging to the sons of God.

Living by faith we can go boldly to the throne of grace to receive strength for our every time of need. By faith we know that all things work together for our good because we love God and are the called according to his purpose. By faith we know that nothing can separate us from the love of God, or the love of Christ, that since he is for us, nothing can be successfully against us.—Rom. 8:31,35-39

By faith we dwell in the “secret place of the Most High,” and by faith we are sheltered under the “wings” of the Almighty. Truly the just do live by faith. Such a glorious life as this was made possible by him who loved us and gave himself for us. How rich are the rewards of sonship which have come to us through the faith of the Son of God.

What an abundance of life faith has brought.

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