Podcasts about Justification

A new MP3 sermon from Heritage Presbyterian Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Consequences and Assurances of Justification by Faith Subtitle: Romans 2025 Speaker: Joe Morecraft III Broadcaster: Heritage Presbyterian Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 7/27/2025 Bible: Romans 5:1-11 Length: 71 min.

Romans 5:6-11Rev. Matt Rice

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Send us a textW3: We reflect on the recent Israel-Iran conflict.Main Topic: We discuss NT Wright's suggestion that abortion is sometimes justified. We also discuss Brandon Lake's recent comments on appealing to “Bubba” in worship.

Energy company Flogas is to increase its variable electricity charges by around 7%, with effect from 25 August.Why is this being done?Pearse Doherty, Sinn Féin, Spokesperson on Finance, and TD for Donegal, joins Kieran to discuss.

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Satan, whose name means “adversary,” is a created angelic being who once held an exalted position in God's heavenly order. In Ezekiel 28:12-15, under the figure of the king of Tyre, we are given insight into Satan's pre-fall splendor: he was “the anointed cherub who covers,” full of wisdom and perfect in beauty, created blameless until iniquity was found in him. Isaiah 14:12-15, speaking of the fall of “Lucifer, son of the morning” (KJV), reveals the inner ambition of this being who said in his heart, “I will ascend to heaven... I will make myself like the Most High.” These five self-centered declarations form the anatomy of the first sin—prideful rebellion against God's sovereign authority. Though the passage addresses the king of Babylon, the language transcends the human plane, revealing a supernatural reality behind the earthly ruler. Satan's fall was not due to ignorance or weakness, but the willful distortion of his privileged position and beauty, which corrupted his wisdom (Ezek 28:17). His rebellion marked the beginning of moral evil in the universe. When Adam, the original theocratic steward of the earth (Gen 1:26-28), sinned by submitting to Satan's temptation (Gen 3:1-6), dominion was effectively transferred from man to Satan (Luke 4:5-6), who then became “the god of this world” (2 Cor 4:4) and “the ruler of this world” (John 12:31). While God remains sovereign over all (Psa 103:19), Satan now exerts delegated influence over human systems, cultures, and ideologies through deception and darkness (Eph 2:2; 1 John 5:19). Following his fall, Satan became the chief adversary of God, His program, and His people. He is the “god of this world” who blinds the minds of unbelievers (2 Cor 4:4), the “prince of the power of the air” who energizes the sons of disobedience (Eph 2:2), and the “deceiver of the whole world” (Rev 12:9). His access to heaven has not yet been fully revoked, for he presently accuses believers before God, day and night (Job 1:6-12; Rev 12:10). He is active in the affairs of nations (Dan 10:13), sows tares among the wheat (Matt 13:39), and promotes counterfeit signs, doctrines, and ministers (2 Cor 11:13-15; 1 Tim 4:1). Jesus called him a murderer and “the father of lies” (John 8:44). Yet even now, Satan operates only within divinely permitted boundaries—he is a defeated foe on a short leash. At the cross, Christ “disarmed the rulers and authorities,” triumphing over them (Col 2:15), and though Satan remains active, his judgment is certain. His end has already been decreed. Satan's ultimate demise will unfold in stages. During the future Tribulation, he will be cast down from his heavenly access and confined to earth (Rev 12:7-9). Near the end of the Tribulation, he will empower the Beast and the False Prophet in their final global rebellion (Rev 13:2-7). At Christ's Second Coming, Satan will be bound and imprisoned in the abyss for a thousand years during the millennial reign (Rev 20:1-3). After the thousand years, he will be released for one final revolt, gathering the nations for battle against Christ's kingdom, only to be defeated in a moment and cast into the lake of fire, where he will be tormented forever (Rev 20:7-10). This is not annihilation, but conscious, eternal punishment. The irony is profound: the one who said, “I will ascend,” will be brought “down to Sheol, to the recesses of the pit” (Isa 14:15). His story ends not with exaltation, but humiliation—forever crushed under the heel of the Sovereign God (Gen 3:15; Rom 16:20). Demons Fallen angels, often referred to as demons, are those angelic beings who chose to rebel against God. Revelation 12:4 suggests that one-third of the angels followed Satan in his rebellion and were cast down with him. These fallen angels became hostile spiritual entities, operating in opposition to God's purposes and in deceptive rebellion against divine truth. Some are active in the present age (Mark 1:32-34), while others are bound in chains awaiting future judgment (Jude 1:6; Rev 9:1-2, 14). Others are active in influencing world leaders, as seen when demonic spirits go out to deceive the kings of the earth and gather them for battle at Armageddon (Rev 16:13-16). Still others are employed by God as agents of discipline and judgment (Judg 9:23; 1 Sam 16:14-16). Demons are consistently depicted in Scripture as unclean spirits (Matt 10:1; Mark 6:7), deceitful and malevolent (1 Tim 4:1; Rev 16:14). They promote false doctrine (1 Tim 4:1), oppose the truth (2 Cor 4:4), and seek to destroy lives, both spiritually and physically (Mark 5:2-5; Luke 9:39). Their activity includes demon possession (Matt 8:16; Mark 9:17-29), where they exert direct control over human faculties, often producing self-harm, mental torment, and violent behavior. While possession is a reality in the Gospels and Acts, believers today are assured they cannot be possessed by demons, for they are indwelt and sealed by the Holy Spirit (John 14:17; 1 Cor 6:19-20; Eph 1:13-14). Still, demons can tempt, oppress, and deceive (Eph 4:26-27; 2 Cor 2:11). Satan, as the leader of fallen angels, is called the “god of this world” (2 Cor 4:4), “prince of the power of the air” (Eph 2:2), and the “accuser of our brethren” (Rev 12:10). He blinds unbelievers, tempts saints, and prowls like a roaring lion seeking to devour (1 Pet 5:8). He is cunning, having disguised himself as an angel of light (2 Cor 11:14), and he works through systems of false religion, secular ideologies, and demonic doctrines to oppose the gospel (Rev 2:13-24; 1 John 4:1-3). His defeat is already secured through Christ's work on the cross (Col 2:15; Heb 2:14), and his final doom awaits in the lake of fire (Rev 20:10). Until then, believers are called to resist him by submitting to God and standing firm in the truth (Jam 4:7; Eph 6:10-18). Our victory is not in power encounters or mystical deliverance rites, but in the sufficiency of Christ, the authority of His Word, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Satan's Strategies to Deceive Satan's primary method of attack is deception. As “the father of lies” (John 8:44), he traffics in half-truths, distortions, and subtle misrepresentations of God's Word. His first recorded words in Scripture are an assault on divine truth: “Indeed, has God said…?” (Gen 3:1). He questioned God's goodness, denied His judgment, and promised a counterfeit enlightenment to Eve (Gen 3:4-5). This pattern persists. Satan's deception often appears religious and even virtuous. He disguises himself as “an angel of light,” and his agents as “servants of righteousness” (2 Cor 11:14-15). He promotes false doctrine that appeals to human pride and legalism (1 Tim 4:1-3), enticing people to trust in rituals, works, or mystical experiences rather than the sufficiency of Christ and the clarity of the gospel (Gal 1:6-9; Col 2:8). He twists Scripture, as he did when tempting Jesus in the wilderness (Matt 4:6), seeking to lead believers into disobedience through misapplied truth. One of his deadliest tools is religious systems that use biblical language but deny grace, subtly shifting trust away from Christ to human performance. Another key strategy Satan uses is infiltration into the thought life of believers. Paul warns of being “led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ” (2 Cor 11:3), and commands believers to “take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). Satan sows seeds of fear, anxiety, envy, bitterness, and doubt—undermining the believer's confidence in God's character and promises. He exploits emotional instability, tempts toward discontentment, and entices with worldly lusts (1 John 2:15-17). He is the master of discouragement, often accusing believers and dredging up past failures to immobilize present faith (Rev 12:10). Moreover, Satan creates ideological strongholds—philosophies, political movements, and cultural trends—that oppose biblical truth and condition people to reject the gospel (Col 2:8). He builds systems of thought that appear noble or compassionate but are anchored in rebellion against God. His endgame is to blind minds (2 Cor 4:4), corrupt hearts, and neutralize the impact of God's people. Yet believers are not helpless. By walking in the Spirit, renewing our minds with Scripture, and putting on the full armor of God, we are equipped to stand firm against the schemes of the devil (Eph 6:11-17). How to Be Rescued from Satan's Kingdom All people are born into Satan's domain of darkness, separated from God and spiritually dead in sin (Col 1:13; Eph 2:1-3). But in His grace, God rescues us through the finished work of Christ. At the moment of faith in Jesus—believing that He is the eternal Son of God who died for our sins, was buried, and rose again (1 Cor 15:3-4)—the believer is delivered from the authority of Satan and transferred into the kingdom of God's beloved Son (Col 1:13-14). This transfer is instantaneous, permanent, and entirely the work of God. Justification is by grace alone (Eph 2:8-9), through faith alone (Rom 3:28; Gal 2:16), in Christ alone (John 14:6; Acts 4:12), and results in spiritual rebirth (1 Pet 1:3, 23) and a new identity in Christ (2 Cor 5:17). Though Satan can no longer possess or eternally condemn the believer, he still seeks to deceive, discourage, and derail. The Christian life, therefore, is a spiritual battleground—not for salvation, but for sanctification, fruitfulness, and eternal reward (2 Cor 10:3-5; 1 Cor 3:12-15). To live effectively for the Lord in this fallen world, believers must learn and live God's Word by faith. Scripture is our source of truth and stability in the face of Satan's lies (John 17:17). It nourishes spiritual growth (1 Pet 2:2), renews the mind (Rom 12:2), and equips us for every good work (2 Tim 3:16-17). As we walk by faith and are filled with the Spirit (2 Cor 5:7; Eph 5:18), prayer becomes the posture of dependence—bringing our needs, confessions, thanksgiving, and intercessions before the throne of grace (Phil 4:6-7; Heb 4:16). Sharing the gospel is both our privilege and duty, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Rom 1:16), and through it, others can be rescued from darkness as we were. Doing good—as God defines it—is not about self-promotion or religious performance, but humble service empowered by the Spirit and aligned with divine truth (Gal 6:10; Tit 2:11-14). As we abide in Christ, our lives bear fruit—bringing glory to God and blessing to others (John 15:5-8). This is how we shine as lights in the world and stand firm against the darkness—not in fear, but in confident obedience to the One who saved us by grace and sustains us through truth (Phil 2:15-16; Eph 6:10-13). The Christian Armor Paul concludes his letter to the Ephesians with a powerful call to spiritual readiness: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might” (Eph 6:10). The verb endunamoō (“be strong”) is in the passive voice, indicating that believers are to be strengthened by God, not by self-effort. This strength comes in the Lord (en kyriō), through dependence on His strength and might. The believer stands not in personal resolve, but in the resurrection power that raised Christ from the dead (Eph 1:18-20). To walk in that strength, we are commanded to “put on the full armor of God” (panoplia), a reference to the complete suit of Roman military equipment—every piece essential for defense and stability (Eph 6:11). The goal is not to attack, but “to stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” The term methodeias refers to Satan's cunning strategies—his deceitful systems, twisted half-truths, and subversive ideologies designed to lead believers astray. Paul clarifies that our conflict is not “against flesh and blood” but against unseen forces of spiritual evil (Eph 6:12). The battle is not political or cultural at its root, but spiritual. Demonic powers are organized in ranks—rulers, authorities, world-rulers of this darkness, and spiritual forces of wickedness—and they operate in the heavenly realms. For this reason, Paul repeats the command to take up the full armor of God so that we may resist in “the evil day” (Eph 6:13)—those seasons of intense spiritual assault. The goal, repeated throughout the passage, is to stand, firm and immovable. Victory is not flashy or mystical; it is doctrinal, daily, and practical. We are to gird our loins with truth (Eph 6:14)—that is, fasten ourselves with God's revealed Word, which brings stability and prepares us for action. The breastplate of righteousness refers not to justification but to sanctification—practical righteousness that guards the inner life and silences Satan's accusations (1 Pet 3:16). A holy life is one of the best defenses against spiritual attack. Paul next highlights the footwear of the believer: “having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace” (Eph 6:15). This speaks of readiness and sure-footedness. Just as Roman soldiers wore sandals studded with nails for grip, the believer stands firm when grounded in the gospel. The peace we have with God through Christ (Rom 5:1) brings confidence and steadiness in battle. Then comes the shield of faith (Eph 6:16)—the thyreon, a large Roman shield used to block arrows. Faith is trust in God's person and promises, and it extinguishes the devil's flaming arrows—temptations, accusations, and lies. When doubts or fears are hurled at the soul, faith deflects them with the truth of God's character (1 John 5:4). The helmet of salvation (Eph 6:17) protects the mind, pointing not only to justification, but also to our future glorification—our hope in Christ's return and full deliverance (1 Th 5:8-9). Lastly, the believer takes up “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” This is the machaira, a short sword for close combat, and the word rhēma refers to the spoken Word—specific Scriptures applied in real-time spiritual conflict. Just as Jesus used Scripture in the wilderness to deflect Satan's temptations (Matt 4:1-11), so must we. The Spirit empowers the believer not with mystical formulas, but with rightly understood and applied Scripture. Victory in spiritual warfare belongs to those who abide in Christ, walk by faith, think biblically, and live obediently—not in fear, but in confidence grounded in divine truth. Conclusion In the end, the study of angels, Satan, and demons grounds the believer in spiritual reality. It helps us interpret the chaos of our world through the lens of God's revealed truth, not mere human observation. We are reminded that unseen spiritual agents—both holy and hostile—operate within the bounds of God's sovereign rule, and that we are not spectators, but participants in an ongoing conflict between truth and deception, light and darkness. Our calling is not to speculate about the invisible, but to stand firm in what God has revealed. As we obey His commands, share His gospel, and endure in hope, we bring glory to the One who has already secured the final victory. And so, we press on—not with fear, but with clarity, confidence, and courage, knowing that the Lord of hosts is with us, and the battle is the Lord's (1 Sam 17:47; Rom 8:37-39). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.        

In today's episode Guilaine reflects on the binary polarisation of justification when it comes to accounting for workplace dynamics, particularly in cases of discrimination. Situations where for example an employee of colour makes a complaint and it is dismissed, in their belief due to the colour of their skin, but their employer claims the dismissal is due to the employees conduct, behaviour or ability to do the job. The two forms of justification tend to be pitted against each other.She then lays out how this binary dichotomy created around these issues has a heavy risk of a false negative, which is an ethical risk in terms of failing to see discrimination when discrimination has occurred but is also arguably a general risk for the health of the institution involved.She explores three reasons that this binary is false or simplistic:Discrimination is much more likely to happen when the institution finds a problem with an employee of colour Poor performance, whether it is present or not, is likely to be explained based on race due to fundamental attribution error/group attribution error.Poor performance and discrimination are not independent, they co-relateShe finishes up by recommending that we throw out this binary framework in regards to race, but also potentially to many other areas of life and forms of discrimination.Subscribe, rate and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week Steve taught about the life of Abraham to help us grow in faith and humility as they relate to our Calling, Justification and Glorification. 

July 20, 2025 Worship Service Order of Service:

Romans 3:20 — Imagine that a person was on trial for a crime that they had committed. The odds are all stacked against them and they were pronounced guilty. The law rightly condemns them as guilty. However, when the judge is set to announce the punishment, the judge says that they are free. This is how Paul explains justification. It is a legal term and a declaration that Christ no longer condemns the sinner and now regards them as righteous. In this sermon from Romans 3:20 titled “Justification Explained,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that it is not that Christians are righteous; it is a removal of sin and a pronouncement from the Lord that He considers them righteous. Paul understands that the Jews had fallen into a trap, thinking that they were able to be justified by the law that they were given. However, God gave the law to show how truly sinful everyone is and how they are in need of a Savior. Dr. Lloyd-Jones further illustrates how the word justification is used throughout Scripture and how the Roman Catholics defined the word. He makes interesting points of how the modern day Christian generally does not understand the definition of many key words used throughout Scripture. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also examines the difference between justification and sanctification.

Romans 3:20 — Imagine that a person was on trial for a crime that they had committed. The odds are all stacked against them and they were pronounced guilty. The law rightly condemns them as guilty. However, when the judge is set to announce the punishment, the judge says that they are free. This is how Paul explains justification. It is a legal term and a declaration that Christ no longer condemns the sinner and now regards them as righteous. In this sermon from Romans 3:20 titled “Justification Explained,” Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones explains that it is not that Christians are righteous; it is a removal of sin and a pronouncement from the Lord that He considers them righteous. Paul understands that the Jews had fallen into a trap, thinking that they were able to be justified by the law that they were given. However, God gave the law to show how truly sinful everyone is and how they are in need of a Savior. Dr. Lloyd-Jones further illustrates how the word justification is used throughout Scripture and how the Roman Catholics defined the word. He makes interesting points of how the modern day Christian generally does not understand the definition of many key words used throughout Scripture. Dr. Lloyd-Jones also examines the difference between justification and sanctification. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/603/29

• What does the word “save” mean in the Bible? • Examples from the Old Testament and New Testament • Understanding the distinctions between three stages of “salvation” • What is “justification?” • How does justification differ from “sanctification?” “Saved” and “Salvation” are among the most significant words in the Bible, but do we understand their meaning? Listen to this lesson to hear a detailed analysis of their essence in both the Old Testament and New Testament. Understand that you must see the context to get the full meaning. Learn about the three stages of salvation and the Baptism by the Holy Spirit. Gain insight that will help you as you move toward spiritual maturity.

How can a sinful person be accepted by a holy God? Justification is a judicial act of God, in which He declares a sinner righteous, not because of the sinner's merit, but because of the righteousness of Christ. By God's grace, this righteousness is imputed to the sinner by faith alone in Jesus Christ. This justification, this Great Exchange, is only possible because the perfect life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In their final Monday hour, Daniele & Zack reflect on the Blue Jays as they reach the MLB All-Star Break. They chat with Brandon Wile, theScore's MLB supervising editor, about the team's performance and trade deadline expectations. The trio also discusses Toronto's recent draft picks. To wrap up, they preview the Home Run Derby with insights from Dave Jauss (21:23), Senior Advisor for the Washington Nationals, who has experience coaching stars like Pete Alonso and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.

Today we're continuing in our series Re-Examining Romans with Part 7 - Abraham. How does Abraham point us to Jesus? Let's talk about it. This is the audio podcast.

The Justice of God in the Justification of Sinners

Warfare had to be re-propagandised in the 20th Century, particularly in the western world, as a moral crusade. Mass democracy determined that leaders needed to present war as a manichean struggle between freedom and tyranny. The end of the Tsarist regime and the intervention of a liberal American president in the First World War was an ideal opportunity to re-invent conflict as moral crusade in the defence of freedom. The arguments that British, American and other NATO leaders present in the 21st Century and during the era of genocide that we are living through, are looking threadbare to say the least. *****STOP PRESS*****I only ever talk about history on this podcast but I also have another life, yes, that of aspirant fantasy author and if that's your thing you can get a copy of my debut novel The Blood of Tharta, right here:Help the podcast to continue bringing you history each weekIf you enjoy the Explaining History podcast and its many years of content and would like to help the show continue, please consider supporting it in the following ways:If you want to go ad-free, you can take out a membership hereOrYou can support the podcast via Patreon hereOr you can just say some nice things about it here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kingdom LivingReadings this week:Genesis 3Romans 5Romans 6Romans 7Romans 8For more information, please see the Reading Plan

David Vallance expounds the truth of justification by faith. It is a one time event, not an ongoing process It is a declaration not an infusion It differs from sanctification, but is closely related It is more than “Just as if I had never sinned” Old Testament justification is the same as New Testament justification N.T. Wright's “new view” of justification erroneous In justification a righteous standing from God is imputed to the believing sinner Christ personal law-keeping is not The post The Glorious Doctrine of Justification by Faith Expounded (56 min) first appeared on Gospel Hall Audio.

Thursday with Tabitha 5. Micah by Tabitha Smith Micah came from the town of Moresheth in Judah, southwest of Jerusalem - other than that, we are not told anything else about the man himself. The book doesn't tell us how God called him. His name can be translated as a question which asks: Who is like Yahweh? Micah's prophesy came during the years of kings Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah of Judah (who ruled between 750 BC and 687 BC). Hosea and Isaiah prophesied at roughly the same time. The main themes of Micah are God's judgement and forgiveness. In this book we will discover the prophesy about Jesus' birthplace and meet the Messiah as the Good Shepherd. The book opens with a pronouncement against Jerusalem and Samaria, announcing to them that God is bringing his witness against them, like a kind of lawsuit. In the same way that a prosecutor outlines his case, God will bring charges against his people and back them up with evidence. From chapter 2 God starts to set out his case. His people have dealt cruelly and unjustly with their fellow-men. Out of greed and jealousy they have desired what belongs to others and taken it for themselves - both houses and fields. False prophets have arisen amongst the people, speaking words that do not come from God. The prophets speak what the people want to hear, for their own pride and gain. In Micah 2:11, Micah sarcastically says that a prophet who promised plenty of alcoholic beverages would be just the kind of prophet the people desired!  The rulers of Israel are criticised for doing evil, abusing the people they are supposed to be ruling and despising justice. The leaders accept bribes, the priests preach for money and the prophets accept cash for false fortune telling. The whole society is twisted and corrupt, so far from the way God intended them to be. Judgement will fall on Jerusalem and Samaria in the form of invading armies of the Assyrians and Babylonians.   In chapter 4 the mood suddenly changes to one of future promise. In Micah 4:1, Micah says that ‘in the last days the mountain of the Lord's temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and all peoples will stream to it'.   The phrase, ‘in the last days' is often found in prophetic writing and it usually refers to a time in the future beyond the present era, sometimes referring to the time of the coming of the Messiah. Micah foresees a time when God will restore Jerusalem and make it a focal point for the gathering of the nations. Instead of climbing to high places to worship pagan false gods, the peoples will make the ascent to the dwelling place of God and worship him alone. Micah 4:3 is quite famous; in it Micah prophesies that the nations  of the world will ‘beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore.' Unprecedented peace will come to the world in the last days when the Messiah, the Prince of Peace, ushers in his new kingdom. These same words are found in the book of Isaiah 2:4. It is possible that Isaiah and Micah used a shared source for this, or one may have borrowed this thought from the other.  In chapter 5 we find intriguing prophesies about the coming Messiah. Micah5:2 is often read at Christmas time. It says “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from old, from ancient times.”  King David came from Bethlehem and was an unlikely choice to be king by external worldly measures. Bethlehem was a small town with nothing really going for it.   Several hundred years later, the greater David, the Messiah, Jesus, was born in this same small town. The Jews anticipated that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, based on this prophecy in Micah. Yet they didn't recognise him when he arrived as he didn't come in the way they expected. Ironically, it seems that the Jews alive at the time of Jesus knew him as the carpenter of Nazareth in Galilee, ignorant of the fact that his birthplace was in Bethlehem. You can read more about this in the 7th chapter of John's gospel. This coming Messiah is pictured as one who will shepherd his flock, his people, and bring them unprecedented peace. In chapters 6 and 7 God continues his lawsuit against his people. The charges now include corrupt business practices, disloyalty and betrayal within families, violence and falsehood. The downfall and destruction of Jerusalem is foretold. However, there is the promise of hope and restoration. In Micah 7:9 the city of God speaks with a prophetic voice: ‘Because I have sinned against him, I will bear the Lord's wrath, until he pleads my case and establishes my right. He will bring me out into the light; I will see his righteousness.' The book ends with a rhetorical question that echoes the meaning of Micah's name: ‘who is a God like you, who pardons sin and forgives the transgression of the remnant of his inheritance? You do not stay angry forever but delight to show mercy. You will again show compassion to us; you will tread our sins underfoot and hurl all our iniquities into the depths of the sea.' In the Bible the language of the courtroom and legal process is loaded with significance. God is the ultimate Judge, and he is always just in his judgements. He cannot just ignore sin and wrongdoing, or sweep it under the carpet. Where there has been a wrong, a judgement must be pronounced and a sentence served. In the New Testament we encounter the concept of justification. This is also a legal term. To justify someone means to acquit them, to declare them righteous. The Bible teaches us that God justifies us by grace. In other words, he declares us righteous although we do not deserve it. The penalty for our sin still had to be paid and Jesus did this for us, taking our sins upon himself in his death on the cross. So sinful people can be pronounced just because Jesus paid for (or atoned) for our sins. The penalty is paid, justice is done. Justification doesn't mean that God lets us off for our sins, or acts as if we'd never sinned; it means that God's holiness demanded a payment for our sin, and God himself provided the means of this payment, through the death of Jesus on our behalf. Justice and mercy meet together and love and grace are seen most clearly on the cross. God issues his people with a challenge in Micah 6:8 - “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” These words have timeless relevance and if you would like to see how Christians are working out this truth in the world today, have a look at www.micahchallenge.org. Micah Challenge is a coalition of Christians who take their inspiration from this verse in Micah and campaign on issues of justice. They are working to hold governments accountable for the promises they made to the poorest people in the world in 2000 when the Millennium Development Goals were set. If you need some inspiration or resources to help you get engaged with issues of justice, poverty and action, have a look at their website. If you are involved with a local church, think about how you could encourage people in your fellowship to take practical steps to speak up for those who are denied justice. Love is demonstrated in action and we are all called to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God. 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Sermon, 07/06/2025: The Gospel Of Justification

What is self-justification? What does the Bible say about self-justification? How can I avoid self-justifying words and behaviors?

Topics:  Question In The Book Of Job, Mission Impossible, Bitterness, Desires, Breaking Animal News BONUS CONTENT: Breaking Animal News Follow-up, Helen Mirren Follow-up, Mission Impossible Follow-up   Quotes: “We praise freely because of who He is.” “You can find justification for yourself pretty much anywhere on the internet.” “Will power is overrated.” “Red pandas are just foxes.” . . . Holy Ghost Mama Pre-Order! Want more of the Oddcast? Check out our website! Watch our YouTube videos here. Connect with us on Facebook! For Christian banking you can trust, click here!

Blessed #4 Ephesians 1:3

Today we are continuing in our series Re-Examining Romans with Part 6 - God in a Messed-Up World. What can God do in a messed-up world? Let's talk about it. This is the audio podcast.

The most irrefutable testimony for the truth of God is a life that has been changed and healed!While Peter and John were addressing the people, the priests, the chief of the Temple police, and some Sadducees came up, indignant that these upstart apostles were instructing the people and proclaiming that the resurrection from the dead had taken place in Jesus. They arrested them and threw them in jail until morning, for by now it was late in the evening. But many of those who listened had already believed the Message, in round numbers about five thousand! Acts 4:1-4 MSGThose who are open to God's voice will hear Him, and those who aren't, won't! The next day the council of all the rulers and elders and teachers of religious law met in Jerusalem. Annas the high priest was there, along with Caiaphas, John, Alexander, and other relatives of the high priest. Acts 4:5-6 NLTThe decision to ignore or manipulate God's truth is a form of self-deception with roots in demonic rebellion! Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” John 8:31-32 NLTDenying the truth doesn't make it less true or you less accountable for the consequences of disobedience.They brought in the two disciples and demanded, “By what power, or in whose name, have you done this?” Acts 4:7 NLTThen Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers and elders of our people, are we being questioned today because we've done a good deed for a crippled man? Do you want to know how he was healed? Let me clearly state to all of you and to all the people of Israel that he was healed by the powerful name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene, the man you crucified but whom God raised from the dead. For Jesus is the one referred to in the Scriptures, where it says, ‘The stone that you builders rejected has now become the cornerstone.' There is salvation in no one else! God has given no other name under heaven by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:8-12 NLTA man can no more diminish God's glory by refusing to worship Him than a lunatic can put out the sun by scribbling the word 'darkness' on the walls of his cell. C. S. Lewis The members of the council were amazed when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, for they could see that they were ordinary men with no special training in the Scriptures. They also recognized them as men who had been with Jesus. But since they could see the man who had been healed standing right there among them, there was nothing the council could say. Acts 4:13-14 NLT Objections to God's truth and will and fall silent against an honest assessment of His Grace and Glory.What should we do with these men?” they asked each other. “We can't deny that they have performed a miraculous sign, and everybody in Jerusalem knows about it. Acts 4:16 NLTFriends, I realize that what you and your leaders did to Jesus was done in ignorance…. Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. Acts 3:17 & 19 NLTJustification and pride are the right soil for deception, while humility and repentance are the right soil for a harvest of deliverance and freedom. The council then threatened them further, but they finally let them go because they didn't know how to punish them without starting a riot. For everyone was praising God for this miraculous sign, the healing of a man who had been lame for more than forty years. Acts 4:21-22 NLTAll the believers were united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not their own, so they shared everything they had. The apostles testified powerfully to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and God's great blessing was upon them all. Acts 4:32-33 NLTObedient faith in the risen Christ is the foundation for everything God does in and through His people and His church. 

Grace To You - Galatians | Family Of God | Pastor Chris Heller Galatians 3:15-4:7 This Sunday we will finish unpacking Paul's defense of the core doctrine of Justification by Faith. We will continue to ask, “what does it mean to be 'declared righteous'"?, both for Paul's audience and the reader today. Join us as we hope to fully embrace our new family - the family of God - and in doing so, get used to our new COG's (Children of God shoes) and what it means to walk in the freedom of being “In Christ!”

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, listeners gain clear and insightful answers on key Catholic teachings and questions. Topics include whether St. Paul would recognize the doctrine of transubstantiation, reliable resources on liturgical changes since Vatican II, and the historical context of the Inquisition. The episode also clarifies misconceptions about the Bible and addresses claims of suppressed books. Discussion covers patristic sources on the Immaculate Conception, the nature of the Transfiguration, and why the NAB Bible is used in U.S. liturgy. Additionally, listeners learn about the Catholic view of justification versus Protestant faith alone, the acceptability of prostration in Latin Rite prayer, and the theological implications of worshipping a deceiving spirit. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 02:59 – Would St. Paul recognize the doctrine of transubstantiation? 08:26 – Where can reliable resources be found regarding changes to the liturgy post-Vatican II? 14:05 – What is the historical context and Church justification regarding the Inquisition? 18:40 – Is there any truth to the claim that the Catholic Church is hiding or suppressing 14 books of the Bible? Clarification needed on the Bible as a Catholic book. 21:56 – During the Transfiguration, when Moses talks with Jesus, is that an example of necromancy? 28:55 – Where can more patristic information about the Immaculate Conception be found? 35:05 – Why is the NAB Bible used as the basis for liturgy in the U.S.? What would be required to change to a different translation? 41:22 – If Satan or a demon tricks a group into worshipping him, is that group worshipping the same God as Christians? 48:53 – Is it acceptable in the Latin/Roman Rite to pray in a prostration style similar to Eastern Orthodox practice? 50:55 – What is the Catholic understanding of Justification compared to the Protestant doctrine of Faith alone?

Episode 137: Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C) In today's episode, we look at five details in the Mass readings for this upcoming 14th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C. The first two come from the second reading, taken from Galatians 6:14-18. The relevant topics are the Catholic practice of having crucifixes and the nature of justification. The other three details are found in the Gospel reading, which is taken from Luke 10:1-12, 17-20. The relevant topics are the historicity of the Gospel portrait of Jesus as an exorcist, the relation of Satan's binding and the millennial reign of Ch...

Episode 137: Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C) In today's episode, we look at five details in the Mass readings for this upcoming 14th Sunday of Ordinary Time, Year C. The first two come from the second reading, taken from Galatians 6:14-18. The relevant topics are the Catholic practice of having crucifixes and the […]

Send us a textA compilation of previous episodes exploring sanctity, holiness, justification, and righteousness. Theology of Sanctity (Season 1 Episode 4)Catholic and Protestant Views on Justification (Season 2 Episode 21)Click here to support the Carmelite Friars! Have something you'd love to hear Fr. Stephen and John talk about? Email us at myfriendthefriar@gmail.com or click here!

LAURA ROCKWOOD: Retired Gen. Counsel for Vienna's International Atomic Energy Agency. Expert on Iranian nuclear capabilities.SummaryIn this conversation, Laura Rockwood, a former senior legal advisor at the IAEA, shares her extensive experience in nuclear nonproliferation, particularly in relation to Iran and Iraq. The discussion covers the complexities of negotiating in the Middle East, the challenges of verifying nuclear capabilities, and the impact of false intelligence on the Iraq War. Rockwood emphasizes the importance of diplomacy in addressing nuclear threats and the need for a collective approach to global stability. The conversation also touches on the moral implications of military actions against nuclear facilities and the role of leadership in shaping public sentiment and international relations.TakeawaysLaura Rockwood has over 40 years of experience in nuclear nonproliferation.Negotiating in the Middle East can be challenging, but gender does not hinder respect.The IAEA's role is to verify, not prevent, nuclear weapons development.False intelligence significantly impacted the justification for the Iraq War.Iran's nuclear program is complex and requires careful monitoring.Diplomacy is essential for resolving nuclear tensions and conflicts.Military actions against nuclear facilities raise moral and legal questions.The Non-Proliferation Treaty aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons.Public sentiment can be influenced by leadership decisions and actions.Addressing root causes of instability is crucial for global peace.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setup01:06 The Aftermath of the Iraq War and Intelligence Failures02:29 Navigating Nuclear Inspections in Iraq04:56 The IAEA's Role and False Intelligence06:28 Technical Challenges and Communication Issues06:46 Revisiting Iraq: Inspections and Cooperation08:29 The U.S. Justification for War10:29 The Impact of Forgeries on Intelligence12:06 Understanding Enrichment and Transportation12:41 Historical Context of Iran's Nuclear Ambitions14:29 The Role of the JCPOA in Iran's Nuclear Strategy16:39 Diplomatic Solutions and Future Negotiations18:24 The Morality of Military Action20:33 The Global Nuclear Landscape22:20 The Influence of Domestic Politics on Foreign Policy24:20 The Threat of Non-State Actors26:31 The Future of Nuclear Proliferation28:22 The Role of the NPT and Global Governance30:23 The Impact of U.S. Foreign Policy on Global Stability32:38 The Complexity of International Relations34:28 The Role of Leadership in Nuclear Decisions36:18 The Importance of Diplomacy38:28 The Human Cost of War40:24 The Technical Aspects of Nuclear Weapons42:25 The Future of U.S.-Iran Relations44:22 The Role of Public Perception in Policy46:19 The Intersection of Politics and Nuclear Strategy48:11 The Human Element in Nuclear Proliferation50:16 The Legacy of Nuclear Weapons52:29 The Future of Global Security54:11 The Path Forward for Nuclear Non-ProliferationSound Bites"I have never felt disrespected by...""We reported that to the Security Council...""Iraq never reached that stage."

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRomans 10 Many Jewish people possess zeal for God but lack knowledge. Unaware of His righteousness, they attempt to establish their own. Justification through law will always fail to render one righteous, “for Christ is the end of the law for righteousness for everyone who believes.” This righteousness is found in the word of faith that has been proclaimed: that those who confess Jesus as Lord and believe that God raised Him from the dead will be saved. God requires a believing heart and open lips to profess the name of Jesus. Regardless of their background, whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. This salvation necessitates hearing the gospel of Christ and responding in faith. Unfortunately, prophecy foretold that many in Israel would not listen to the truth. Christians should desire and pray for everyone's salvation. If we know individuals who are zealous for God but lack understanding of the gospel, we should be prepared to share the truth of Jesus with them. Salvation comes through faith and requires hearts that believe and mouths that confess. Be attentive to the opportunities God provides to confess Jesus by helping someone in your life grasp the truth about Him. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. However, the gospel reveals that such a call requires belief, confession of Jesus, repentance from sins, and submission to Christ through baptism. Many are not yet ready to obey, but we must continue to share God's gracious plan. Righteous Lord, thank You for making salvation accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. Thank You for the promise that everyone who calls on His name will be saved. Strengthen us to boldly confess Jesus as Lord and fully trust in His resurrection. Give us hearts for those who have not yet responded to the gospel and a passion to share Your word with them. Help us be faithful messengers, knowing that the faith within us and others comes from “the word of Christ.” Purge from within us any disobedience or obstinance that may prevent us from experiencing salvation in Your Son. Thought Questions: -       What does “confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead” mean in your life? -       If “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ,” how does that direct how you grow closer to Christ and share Him with others? -       “Whoever will call on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Does this include elements like repentance and baptism? How do you know?

Can the law make you right with God or change your heart? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper turns to Romans 8:1–4 to explain why only Christ, received by faith, can justify and transform.

In this episode of Good Morning Liberty, hosts Nate Thurston and Charles Murica Thompson dive into the recent US military strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities and discuss Trump's response and intentions. They also explore the constitutional implications, the role of Congress, and President Trump's harsh criticism and efforts to unseat Congressman Thomas Massie. The hosts examine the broader context of US foreign policy, Iran's nuclear ambitions, and the potential consequences of these actions on global stability. Tune in for a thorough analysis of recent political moves, their implications, and a passionate debate on principle versus pragmatism within the GOP. (00:00) Intro (06:07) Trump's Speech on Iran Strikes (07:50) Uncertainty and Analysis of the Strikes (09:59) Potential Consequences and Reactions (26:11) Legal and Constitutional Issues (31:38) Regime Change and Historical Context (35:13) Constitutional Arguments Against Strikes on Iran (35:36) War Powers Resolution and Legal Critiques (38:09) Trump's Justifications and Political Reactions (40:03) Thomas Massie's Constitutional Stance (44:08) Trump's Attack on Thomas Massie (54:03) Reflections on Voting and Political Principles   Links:   https://gml.bio.link/   YOUTUBE:   https://bit.ly/3UwsRiv   RUMBLE:   https://rumble.com/c/GML   Check out Martens Minute!   https://martensminute.podbean.com/   Follow Josh Martens on X:   https://twitter.com/joshmartens13   CB Distillery 25% off with promo code GML   cbdistillery.com   Join the Fed Haters Club!   joingml.com   secure.thomasmassie.com/donate  

Send us a textGood morning! Thank you for taking a few minutes to listen. If you are interested in the Daily Bible Devotional, you can find it at the links below:Amazon - (paperback, hardcover, and Kindle)Spiritbuilding.com - (premium quality paperback)Youtube Video Introducing the ContentFeel free to reach out with any questions: emersonk78@me.comRomans 3 The Jews have the unique privilege of being God's chosen people who receive the “oracles of God.” However, this does not excuse their sin, nor does their unrighteousness diminish God's goodness. Paul explains that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin, showing that no one is righteous and that all need God's grace through Jesus Christ. Citing Old Testament scriptures, Paul demonstrates that God has always known humanity could not achieve righteousness through the law. The solution is found in righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, who provides propitiation through His blood. God justifies believers as a gift of grace through Christ's redemption. God's righteousness is on display, as He is just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. In this, all personal boasting is excluded.   The Jewish people are special because God chose to reveal scripture through them. For some, this belief led to a mistaken notion that they could sin without fearing judgment from God. However, God is a righteous judge who will punish all those condemned by sin. This serves as a needful lesson for some Christians. Understanding the truth and being part of God's people does not excuse sin. The reality is that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Furthermore, none will be justified by their heritage, church affiliations, or knowledge. God alone is righteous, and He chooses to demonstrate this by granting us redemption as we live by faith in Jesus. We must choose humility over boasting.   Holy God, we confess that we have sinned and fallen short of Your glory, and we are completely dependent on Your grace. Thank You for the gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, who redeemed us through His sacrifice. Help us to live humbly, acknowledging that we cannot earn salvation but receive it as Your loving gift. Teach us never to misuse Your grace with willful sin but to choose faithfulness so that we may glorify and praise You with our allegiance. Lead us to someone today who is burdened by their imperfections and in need of Your grace.   Thought Questions: -       God is patient with His people. Does this mean you can sin as often as you want and be covered by His grace? Why not? -       If no one is righteous, and all fall short of God's glory, how do you maintain confidence that He has saved you? Where is your confidence? -       Justification is a gift of grace from the righteous Judge. How does your daily life demonstrate your gratitude for this incredible gift?

What would it take to silence the accusing voice inside you? In this episode of Light + Truth, John Piper opens Romans 8:1 to show how every charge against believers has already been answered.

In this episode of Catholic Answers Live, Karlo Broussard answers questions on Catholic doctrine, Church history, and theological distinctions. Why does the Church teach the difference between mortal and venial sin? What is the Catholic response to the idea of ordaining women in the Eastern Orthodox Church? Karlo also clarifies the requirements for conditional baptism and confirmation, explores the similarities and differences between Catholic and Lutheran views on justification, and discusses the traditional order of the sacraments in the Latin Rite. Plus, learn how the early Church understood purgatory and when belief in it began to fade. Join The CA Live Club Newsletter: Click Here Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 00:59 – Why does the Catholic Church teach the distinction between mortal and venial sin? 16:43 – If the Eastern Orthodox Church were to ordain women, would such ordinations be considered sacramentally valid? 21:49 – What are the conditions under which conditional baptism or confirmation may be granted, and why might one be approved while the other is not? 31:56 – What are the key differences and similarities between the Catholic and Lutheran views on justification? Are they closer than commonly believed? 46:45 – Is there any movement within the Latin Rite to restore the traditional sacramental order—Baptism, Confirmation, then Eucharist—especially for infants? 51:43 – When and why did belief in purgatory begin to decline, and how was it understood in the early Church?