Justified by faith
Sermon

Justified by Faith: How Romans Chapter 1 Reveals the Path to Being Right with God

IG

IK Gibson

Founder & Visionary

Have you ever felt the weight of guilt, shame, or the nagging sense that you’re not good enough? Maybe you’ve wondered if it’s even possible to be right with God. If so, you’re not alone. The book of Romans, particularly chapter 1, addresses this universal struggle head-on and offers a life-transforming truth: you can be justified—declared right with God—not by your own efforts, but through faith in Jesus Christ.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into Romans chapter 1, unpacking what it means to be justified, why it matters, and how this truth can set you free from the burden of trying to earn God’s approval. Let’s explore the solution to humanity’s greatest need: reconciliation with God.

The Problem: Humanity’s Separation from God

Romans 1 opens with a sobering diagnosis of the human condition. The apostle Paul begins by revealing the reality of sin and its consequences. He writes, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18).

Here’s the hard truth: every one of us has fallen short of God’s standard. Whether through outright rebellion or subtle self-righteousness, we’ve all “suppressed the truth” about who God is and who we are. This separation from God leads to emptiness, brokenness, and a life devoid of true purpose.

But here’s the good news: God didn’t leave us in this hopeless state.

The Solution: Justified by Faith in Jesus Christ

The heart of Romans 1 points us to the gospel—the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). This gospel reveals the righteousness of God, a righteousness that is not earned but received by faith.

What does it mean to be justified? It means to be declared righteous before God, not because of anything we’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done for us. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus paid the penalty for our sin and offers us His righteousness as a free gift.

Paul writes, “The just shall live by faith” (Romans 1:17). This simple yet profound statement is the key to being right with God. It’s not about our performance, our good deeds, or our religious rituals. It’s about placing our faith in Jesus Christ and trusting in His finished work on the cross.

Why Being Justified Matters

Being justified by faith changes everything. Here’s why:

  1. Freedom from Guilt and Shame: When we’re justified, we no longer have to carry the burden of our past mistakes. God declares us righteous, not because we’re perfect, but because Jesus is.
  2. Peace with God: Justification brings reconciliation. We’re no longer enemies of God but His beloved children.
  3. A New Identity: In Christ, we’re no longer defined by our sin but by His righteousness. This new identity empowers us to live with purpose and confidence.
  4. Eternal Hope: Justification isn’t just a temporary fix; it’s an eternal reality. It guarantees our place in God’s family forever.

How to Be Justified: The Path to Salvation

If you’re wondering how to be justified, the answer is simple: faith.

  1. Acknowledge Your Need: Admit that you’ve sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).
  2. Believe in Jesus: Trust that Jesus died for your sins and rose again to give you new life (Romans 10:9).
  3. Receive His Gift: Justification is a gift, not something you can earn. Accept it by faith and let go of the need to prove yourself.
  4. Live by Faith: Being justified is just the beginning. Walk in the freedom and power of your new identity every day.

A Life Transformed by Justification

Imagine what your life would look like if you truly believed you were justified—declared right with God. The fear of failure would lose its grip. The need to impress others would fade away. You’d live with a deep sense of peace, knowing that your standing with God is secure, not because of what you’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done for you.

This is the life-changing truth of Romans chapter 1. It’s not just a theological concept; it’s a reality that can transform your life from the inside out.

Are You Ready to Be Justified?

The message of Romans 1 is clear: you don’t have to stay stuck in guilt, shame, or the endless cycle of trying to earn God’s approval. Through faith in Jesus Christ, you can be justified—declared right with God—and experience the freedom, peace, and purpose you’ve been searching for.

If you’ve never taken this step of faith, today is the day. Acknowledge your need, believe in Jesus, and receive the gift of justification. And if you’ve already been justified, let this truth sink deeper into your heart. You are right with God, not because of what you’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done for you.

Let’s live in the freedom of being justified by faith. Let’s share this life-changing truth with others. And let’s walk in the confidence that we are fully loved, fully accepted, and fully right with God.

Get Involved: Share Jesus’ Gospel to Reveal the Truth: If this message resonated with you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you’re ready to take the step of faith to be justified, leave a comment below or reach out to us. We’d love to pray with you and help you on your journey.

You are justified. Live like it.

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