Publisher's Synopsis
"God justifies the ungodly": Paul's statement in Romans 4:5 has brought comfort and provoked controversy throughout the history of the church. Historically, most Protestants have seen the Reformation as a rediscovery of this gospel truth-indeed, justification as "the article by which the church stands or falls." In our day, however, neither the Reformers' account of the doctrine nor their appraisal of its significance can be taken for granted. Through various movements within Protestant theology and biblical studies, fresh (and not so fresh) challenges have made it imperative for us to reevaluate the Scriptures and the systematic as well as historical arguments that have been persuasive for so many Christians in previous eras. This book joins that contemporary conversation, bringing together voices from the pages of Modern Reformation magazine over the years. Like the magazine, this collection connects Lutheran, Reformed, and Baptist theologians, historians, and biblical scholars who are able to unpack important issues for thoughtful nonspecialists. This collection covers a lot of ground: the relationship of justification to covenant (especially recent discussions between N. T. Wright and John Piper), the law, union with Christ, as well as sanctification. A final chapter considers the contemporary relevance of justification. If theology is for the church, then the gospel is surely a matter for all of God's people to wrestle with together. In this expanded volume, two classic essays are now included under the heading "Union and Peace with Christ" in order to emphasize further the significance of justification for the Christian life, all in keeping with Paul's conclusion in Romans 5:1, "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." May all churches being reformed by the Word stand in the grace of Christ and "rejoice in hope of the glory of God."
