Bible Study: What Is Justification by Faith? Understanding the Assemblies of God Doctrine
You can't earn a gift, and you can't pay for peace, but through the Gospel, you can receive both as a free inheritance.
What is justification by faith in the Assemblies of God doctrine?
Justification by faith is God’s legal declaration that a sinner is righteous because of their faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift of grace where God treats the believer as "not guilty" based solely on Christ's sacrifice, not human effort or good works.
The Heart of the Matter: A New Standing with God
In the journey of faith, few questions are as vital as, "How can I be right with God?" For many, life feels like a constant climb up a ladder of "doing enough", being good enough, praying enough, or serving enough, only to feel like the top is always out of reach.
In the Assemblies of God (AG), we believe the Bible provides a radically different answer. We call it Justification by Faith. This isn't just a dry theological term; it is the "Great Exchange" that changes your identity from a condemned sinner to a beloved heir. It is the fifth of our 16 Fundamental Truths, and it is the foundation of everything we do, whether you are joining us in person in Memphis or connecting through Boundless Online Church.
Definition Block: Justification Justification is a forensic (legal) term used in the Bible to describe the act of God where He declares a person righteous. It does not mean the person has become perfect in their behavior overnight; rather, it means their legal standing before God has changed from "guilty" to "just-as-if-I-never-sinned" because of the work of Jesus.
Fundamental Truth #5: The Salvation of Man
The Assemblies of God teaches that "man’s only hope of redemption is through the shed blood of Jesus Christ the Son of God." This isn't a suggestion; it is the core of the Gospel.
When we talk about salvation, we often look at it through three lenses:
The Problem: We have all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).
The Provision: Jesus Christ died on the cross and rose again to pay the penalty we owed.
The Path: We receive this salvation through repentance toward God and faith in Jesus Christ.
What the Bible Says About Justification
To understand this doctrine, we have to look directly at the Scriptures that define it. The Apostle Paul was particularly focused on ensuring believers understood that justification cannot be earned.
1. Romans 3:23-28 – Justified Freely by Grace
Paul writes, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus... For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law."
This passage tells us two things: First, we all start in the same boat (sinners). Second, the solution is "free." In a world where nothing is free, God’s righteousness is given to those who simply trust in the finished work of His Son.
2. Romans 5:1 – The Fruit of Peace
"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."
Before justification, there is spiritual "friction" or enmity between us and God because of our sin. Justification removes that barrier. The war is over. You can rest in the fact that God is no longer "mad" at you; He is for you.
3. Ephesians 2:8-9 – Not of Works
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith, and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."
If we could save ourselves by being "good people," we would have something to brag about. But God designed salvation so that only Jesus gets the credit. It’s His goodness, not ours, that opens the door to heaven.
4. Galatians 2:16 – Faith vs. The Law
"Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ."
Even the most religious person in Memphis or anywhere else in the world cannot follow enough rules to satisfy God’s perfect holiness. Justification is the only way through.
Justification vs. Regeneration: What's the Difference?
In AG theology, we often distinguish between two things that happen at the moment of salvation:
Term | What it Means | Analogy |
Justification | Your Legal Status changes. God declares you righteous. | A Judge clearing your record. |
Regeneration | Your Nature changes. The Holy Spirit gives you new life. | A Doctor giving you a new heart. |
While they happen at the same time, it’s important to know that justification is about your position before God, while regeneration is about the power of God working inside you.
How Do I Know I'm Justified?
This is a question many new believers ask. In the Assemblies of God, we believe there is both inward and outward evidence.
Inward Evidence: The "direct witness of the Spirit" (Romans 8:16). There is a quiet, settled confidence that comes into your heart when you truly trust Christ. You know you belong to Him.
Outward Evidence: A life of "righteousness and true holiness." While we aren't saved by our works, we are saved for good works. If you are truly justified, your life will begin to change. You’ll want to love people, serve your community in the 901, and grow in your character.
Why This Matters for You Today
Whether you are walking through the streets of Cordova or watching a livestream from the other side of the globe, the doctrine of justification is your source of security.
It ends the shame cycle: You don't have to carry the weight of your past mistakes. If God has declared you "not guilty," who can condemn you?
It provides ground for prayer: You don't approach God’s throne based on how good you were today. You approach Him based on how good Jesus is.
It builds community: When we realize we are all saved by the same grace, we stop judging others and start welcoming them.
Taking the Next Step
If you have been trying to earn God’s favor, today is the day to stop climbing and start receiving. Justification is a gift waiting for your "yes."
At First Assembly Memphis, we are a family of people who have all realized we can't do it on our own. We would love to walk with you as you discover what it means to live as a justified heir of God.
Want to go deeper?
We'd love to connect with you. Visit www.boundlessonlinechurch.org to join our community from anywhere, or if you're in the Memphis area, find us at www.famemphis.org.
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
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