by Kala Loptien

Justified

What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies.  Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.
Romans 8: 31-34, English Standard Version

I’ve heard and I’ve read this particular passage explained alongside the analogy of a courtroom scene. We are on the stand. Guilty on all counts. But as the judge prepares to read the verdict, someone else steps forward — to intercede, to accept our sentence, to take our place. We walk free. Record expunged. Fully justified.

Our Savior, the perfectly-innocent Son of God, stood in our place and endured in our stead. We were the guilty ones. But God wanted more for us. He knew His people needed saving and He had a plan from the very beginning.

But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law,  to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.
Galatians 4: 4-5, English Standard Version 

God’s promises always come to pass. Though we have long lists of failures, sins and records, God’s track record is perfect. He stood in our place, taking the penalty of our sin so we could stand righteous before God. Even more than that, we stand as adopted heirs — saved, loved and alive in Christ.

Copyright Family of Christ Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado