How can justification be defined?

Justification is best understood as an act of God's free grace where believers are accepted as righteous on account of Christ's righteousness. This concept is central to Reformed theology and is supported by various scriptural passages that emphasize that believers are not justified by their own works or merit, but rather through faith in Jesus Christ, who perfectly fulfills the law.

This definition highlights several key elements. First, it emphasizes that justification is not based on human actions or rituals, but solely on God's grace. This underscores the idea that it is a gift from God rather than something earned. Secondly, the reference to being accepted as righteous is crucial, as it means that through faith in Christ, believers are deemed righteous in God’s sight because of Christ’s perfect obedience and sacrificial atonement, which is imputed to them.

This understanding of justification contrasts sharply with the other options. The notion of a method of confession and penance, while historically significant in some traditions, does not align with the Reformed view of justification, which stresses faith over works. Similarly, the idea of believers pardoning their own sins contradicts the belief that it is God alone who justifies individuals. The mention of a covenant made through religious rituals does not capture the essence of justification,