Romans 1:17: The Doctrine of Justification by Faith Alone

by Dale Partridge

There are two doctrines intertwined at the heart of the Gospel—Penal Substitutionary Atonement and Justification by Faith Alone. In this episode, pastor Dale Partridge surveys the second portion of Paul’s thesis for the book of Romans seen in Romans 1:16-17.

Interestingly, it was Romans 1:17 that became the key that unlocked the Protestant Reformation. Namely, it was this verse that the Lord used to convert Martin Luther in 1510 and ignite the flame of the biblical Gospel.

In this episode, we look to answer this essential question: How can sinners be made righteous while God maintains His justice? We know that a just God cannot allow sin to go unpunished. Someone must pay the price. So how do sinners become righteous? 

The answer is given to us in this verse. Join us as we look at the majesty of the Doctrine of Justification by Faith Alone.

Listen to Part 1 of this two-part message: Romans 1:16: How to Overcome Fear When Sharing the Gospel

This Episode’s Sponsor

Ascend Wood is a Christian company (family-owned) committed to making products that preach. A portion of every product sold goes to supporting Christian ministries around the globe. Below you can find our favorite product, their “Slave for Christ” bracelet—great for adults and kids.

Scripture References

  • Romans 1:17

    For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, “The righteous shall live by faith.”

  • 1 John 1:5

    This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

  • 1 Samuel 2:2

    There is none holy like the Lord; there is none besides you; there is no rock like our God.

  • Exodus 15:11

    Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?

  • Isaiah‬ ‭59:1-2

    Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save, or his ear dull, that it cannot hear; but your iniquities have made a separation between you and your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not hear.

  • Romans 3:21-26

    But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law…the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness… It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.

  • Romans 8:1

    There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.

After watching or listening to this episode, what is your opinion? Do you have any questions or comments? Maybe you have something to add to the discussion? If so, let us know in the comments below.

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