Justified By Faith, Not Works
Scripture: Galatians 2:16 (ESV)
“Yet we know that a person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ, so we also have believed in Christ Jesus, in order to be justified by faith in Christ and not by works of the law, because by works of the law no one will be justified.”
Reflection:
Paul’s confrontation with Peter and his teaching in Galatians drive home a critical truth: we are justified by faith in Christ, not by keeping the law.
The sermon’s bridge illustration vividly shows that our works cannot bridge the gap between our sin and God’s holiness—only Christ’s cross can. Paul, once a zealous Pharisee, learned this firsthand when Christ revealed the gospel to him. He reminds us that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith, not earned through effort. This truth frees us to live for God, not to earn His favor, but because we already have it in Christ.
Application:
Take a moment to answer the sermon’s question: If you stood before God and He asked, “Why should I let you into my Heaven?” what would you say? If your answer relies on your good deeds, confess this to God and reaffirm your trust in Christ’s finished work. Trust in Him alone.
Prayer:
Gracious God, thank You for justifying me through faith in Jesus Christ. Forgive me for times I’ve trusted in my own works instead of Your grace. Help me to live by faith, trusting in Christ’s perfect life and sacrifice. May my life reflect Your love and produce good works for Your glory. Amen.