R.C. Sproul emphasizes the critical importance of preaching justification by faith alone (sola fide), a doctrine he believes is under attack and misunderstood in modern evangelical circles. He recounts how key reformers like Luther and Calvin viewed this doctrine as foundational to Christianity, even the very hinge upon which everything turns. He contrasts this with contemporary views that downplay its significance, some even suggesting the Reformation is over.

The speaker then delves into a detailed explanation of the Roman Catholic view of justification, highlighting its sacramental nature, the role of infused grace, and the concept of congruous merit earned through works of satisfaction. He emphasizes that, contrary to some Protestant oversimplifications, Rome does acknowledge the necessity of faith, but sees it as a necessary, but not sufficient, condition for justification. The core difference lies in the Protestant belief that faith alone is sufficient for justification, instantly linking believers to Christ’s righteousness, which is imputed to them. He concludes by stressing that justification is not achieved through intellectual assent or outward profession, but through genuine faith in Christ, and that the imputed righteousness of Christ is the believer’s only hope.

The following is a review of R.C. Sproul’s message that he gave at the 2006 Together for the Gospel conference.

Is Justification by Faith Alone Still Relevant? Why This Doctrine Matters More Than Ever

In a world of shifting theological landscapes, it’s easy to question the relevance of age-old doctrines. But what if one of those doctrines is the very foundation upon which Christianity stands? This article explores the enduring importance of justification by faith alone (sola fide), a cornerstone of the Protestant Reformation, and why it remains crucial for believers today.

The Historical Weight of Sola Fide

The doctrine of justification by faith alone isn’t some minor theological footnote. Throughout history, it has been recognized as a central tenet of the Christian faith.

• Martin Luther famously declared it “the article upon which the church stands or falls.”
• John Calvin considered it “the hinge upon which everything turns.”
• J.I. Packer likened it to Atlas, holding the weight of the entire Christian faith on his shoulders. If Atlas shrugs, Packer argued, the whole structure collapses.

These are not light endorsements. These are declarations of the doctrine’s fundamental importance.

A Diminishing View?

Despite its historical significance, the importance of sola fide seems to be waning in some evangelical circles. Some have even described it as:

• “The small print of the gospel.”
• “A misunderstanding.”
• “A tempest in a teapot.”
• An issue that was major in the 16th century but is no longer a matter of serious debate.

Some even claim that the Reformation is over, with Protestantism and Catholicism having “mended their fences.” But is this a fair assessment?

The Roman Catholic View: A Brief Reconnaissance

To truly understand the significance of sola fide, it’s essential to understand the historical context in which it arose. This means examining the Roman Catholic view of justification, which differs significantly.

• Sacramental Justification: Rome teaches that justification is fundamentally a sacramental matter, administered through the church, the priesthood, and the sacraments.
• Infused Righteousness: Justification begins with baptism, where the grace of justification is “infused” into the recipient’s soul. This grace, sometimes called the righteousness of Christ, doesn’t automatically justify.
• Cooperation and Ascent: The recipient must cooperate with and assent to this grace to become righteous.
• Mortal Sin: Committing mortal sin kills the justifying grace.
• Sacrament of Penance: The sacrament of penance, involving confession, priestly absolution, and works of satisfaction, is the “second plank of justification” for those who have lost their grace.
• Congruous Merit: Works of satisfaction achieve “congruous merit,” making it fitting for God to restore the sinner to a state of grace.

In essence, Rome teaches that justification requires faith plus works, grace plus merit, and Christ plus your own righteousness.

The Reformation Divide: Faith Alone

The Reformation challenged this view, asserting that faith alone is the instrument of justification.

• Necessary vs. Sufficient Condition: While Rome acknowledges faith as a necessary condition for justification, it’s not sufficient. Protestants, however, believe that faith is a sufficient condition.
• Instrumental Cause: Rome sees baptism and penance as the instrumental causes of justification. The Reformation declared that faith is the only instrumental cause.
• Simul Justus et Peccator: Luther famously articulated the concept of simul justus et peccator – simultaneously righteous and a sinner. God declares a person righteous, not because they are inherently righteous, but because Christ’s righteousness is imputed to them.

Imputation: The Heart of the Matter

The concept of imputation is central to the doctrine of justification by faith alone. It means that the righteousness of Christ is credited to the believer, even though they are still sinners. This is the only meritorious cause for justification. Without Christ’s righteousness, all we have to offer God are “filthy rags.”

Beyond Intellectual Ascent: Possessing Faith

It’s crucial to understand that we are not justified by simply believing in the doctrine of justification by faith alone. We must possess the faith that alone will justify. A profession of faith is not enough; it’s the genuine, heartfelt trust in Christ that translates us from darkness to light.

The Good News: Covered by Christ

The gospel is good news! It’s the news that we can despair of our own righteousness, acknowledge our sin, and put our trust in Christ alone. In that instant, all that He is and all that He has becomes ours. We are covered by His righteousness, and God sees us through the cloak of Christ. This justification is not temporary; it’s for eternity.

Why This Still Matters

The doctrine of justification by faith alone is not just an abstract theological concept. It’s the foundation of our hope, our salvation, and our relationship with God. It’s the good news that sets us free from the burden of earning our own righteousness and allows us to rest in the finished work of Christ.

A Call to Action

• Believe: Embrace the doctrine of justification by faith alone.
• Defend: Be prepared to defend this doctrine against those who would diminish or distort it.
• Contend: Contend earnestly for this doctrine, letting go of anything that contradicts it.

Don’t negotiate the concept of the imputed righteousness of Christ. It’s the article upon which you stand or fall.