Justification by the Word - Restoring Sola Fide

God's Word creates what he commands, and justification is an expression of God's creative Word. It is an objective reality achieved in Christ's resurrection and received through an encounter with the risen Christ in Word and sacrament. The church must preach justification to avoid forfeiting the joy of the gospel.

Format: Hardback
Length: 456 pages
Publication date: 21 September 2022
Publisher: Faithlife Corporation

In the realm of theology, a profound concept emerges: the power of God's Word to bring forth what it commands. This concept, known as Justification by the Word, finds its roots in the teachings of Martin Luther, a pivotal figure in the Reformation. While Luther's view of justification may be often misunderstood, it is essential to grasp its essence. For Luther, justification is not merely a legal transaction or a means of earning God's favor. Rather, it is an expression of God's creative Word, a divine manifestation that brings forth new life and transforms the human soul.

To understand Luther on justification, one must delve into his doctrine of the Word. The same God who spoke the words "Let there be light," and behold, it was so, also declares the forgiveness of sins. Justification, therefore, is an objective reality, achieved through the resurrection of Christ and received through an encounter with the risen Christ in the Word and sacrament. It is a transformative experience that redirects our gaze away from our own unsteady feelings and limited understanding, toward the infinite grace and mercy of Christ.

Moreover, Justification by the Word compels us to turn outward, away from our self-centered desires and limited perspectives. It calls us to fix our eyes on Christ, the embodiment of righteousness and the savior of humanity. The church, as the body of Christ, has a vital role to play in preaching justification. It is through the proclamation of the gospel that we can experience the joy and freedom that comes from being declared righteous by God.

In Justification by the Word, Jack D. Kilcrease reintroduces this crucial doctrine and encourages readers to re-encounter its radical implications. Through meticulous scholarship and engaging prose, Kilcrease delves into the historical context, biblical foundations, and theological nuances of justification. He provides a clear and accessible explanation of Luther's perspective, helping readers to appreciate the depth and significance of this doctrine in the Christian faith.

This book is not only a valuable resource for scholars and theologians but also for laypeople who seek to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith. It offers a fresh perspective on justification, challenging readers to embrace the grace and mercy of God and to live lives that are fully devoted to Christ. As we engage with the teachings of Justification by the Word, we are reminded of the power of God's Word to transform our lives and to bring us into a closer relationship with the one who loves us unconditionally.

Weight: 750g
Dimension: 236 x 160 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781683596035