Romans 3:24 is a cornerstone of Christian theology, declaring that fallen humanity is ‘justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus.’ This means a person is made right with God not through their own efforts or good deeds, but as a completely free gift. This gift of grace is made possible by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, whose death paid the penalty for sin.
Every heart longs for peace, forgiveness, and a righteousness that feels out of reach. In his letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul addresses this universal yearning with glorious clarity. Among its many profound truths, one verse shines as a beacon of hope and divine love: Romans 3:24. This single passage captures the very heart of the Gospel, revealing God’s plan for humanity through His Son, Jesus Christ.
This article is dedicated to unraveling the profound, life-transforming message of Romans 3:24. We will explore what it means to be “justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” uncovering the rich theology in each word. This message assures us of God’s unwavering love and His perfect plan for salvation. It is a gift offered not because of anything we have done, but purely out of His boundless mercy, demonstrating both His perfect justice and compassion for all who believe.
Join us as we explore the biblical context that frames this powerful declaration and examine the implications it holds for every believer. Our aim is to illuminate this cornerstone of Christian doctrine, providing a clear, scriptural understanding that will strengthen your assurance in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. In doing so, you will deepen your appreciation for the complete redemption He so graciously provides.
What is the Core Message of Romans 3:24?
The core message of Romans 3:24 is one of profound hope and divine mercy, declaring how sinful humanity can be made right with a holy God. This crucial verse reveals that we are “justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.”
This powerful statement outlines God’s plan of salvation, emphasizing that our righteousness before God is not earned. Instead, it is an undeserved gift made possible through the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ.
God’s Free Gift of Justification
Romans 3:24 begins with the phrase “being justified freely.” In a legal sense, to be “justified” means to be declared righteous—an acquittal from all guilt and condemnation. Through this divine act, God, in His infinite love, removes our sin and credits His own righteousness to us.
Crucially, this justification is given “freely,” meaning it costs us nothing and does not depend on our merits or good deeds. This truth, which is central to the Gospel, underscores God’s pure generosity. As Scripture confirms, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Put simply, human effort cannot earn this divine favor.
The Unmerited Favor of God’s Grace
The verse further clarifies that this justification comes “by His grace.” Grace is God’s undeserved favor and loving-kindness. Although we are inherently unworthy due to our sinfulness, God extends His boundless grace toward us, illustrating His loving nature, which is rich in mercy and compassion.
This divine grace is the very foundation of our salvation. It is God’s proactive intervention, bridging the immense gap between a perfectly holy God and rebellious humanity. Therefore, our salvation is entirely God-initiated, resting solely upon His gracious character, not our performance.
Redemption Through Christ Jesus
The core message culminates with “the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” This phrase is critical, as it explains the means by which God’s grace and our justification are accomplished.
“Redemption” means to be bought back or set free, implying a price was paid. Humanity was enslaved to sin and spiritually captive, but Jesus Christ paid the ultimate price for our freedom. By willingly offering His perfect life and shedding His precious blood on the cross, His sacrificial act ransomed us from sin’s bondage (1 Peter 1:18-19).
The text specifies that this redemption is “in Christ Jesus,” meaning there is no alternative path to forgiveness. Jesus is the exclusive way to God’s presence and the unique Redeemer of mankind. Through His death and glorious resurrection, He decisively conquered sin and death, securing our eternal freedom. Therefore, our faith must be placed solely in Him. As the divine Son of God, He is our Lord and Savior, the only way to the Father (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).
In summary, Romans 3:24 reveals these foundational truths:
- We are declared righteous by God, not by our own works.
- This declaration is a completely free gift from Him.
- It is given through His undeserved favor, which is called grace.
- It is made possible by the costly, liberating sacrifice of Jesus Christ, our redemption.
This verse offers profound comfort and unwavering assurance. It affirms that salvation is entirely God’s work, a gift received through simple faith. Ultimately, it directs all our hope and gratitude to Jesus Christ, the true source of our redemption.
What is the Biblical Context Leading to Romans 3:24?
The Universal Problem: ‘All Have Sinned’ (Romans 3:23)
To grasp the profound truth of Romans 3:24, we must first understand the reality it addresses. The Apostle Paul, guided by the Holy Spirit, begins by establishing a foundational truth: all of humanity shares a dire predicament called sin.
Romans 3:23 states plainly, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). This powerful declaration has several vital implications for every person:
- No one is exempt: This verse shatters any illusion of self-righteousness. It applies to every individual, regardless of their background, heritage, or perceived moral standing.
- A universal human condition: From the moment of Adam’s fall, sin entered the world, affecting all his descendants (Romans 5:12). We are born into a state of sinfulness.
- Missing the mark: The Greek word for “sin” (hamartia) literally means “to miss the mark.” We have all failed to meet God’s perfect standard of holiness and righteousness.
- Falling short of God’s glory: Our sin separates us from God’s perfect glory and presence. It creates a chasm between a holy God and fallen humanity.
This problem goes beyond individual actions. It points to our inherent sinful nature and our inability to achieve righteousness on our own. Even our best efforts—our good deeds and adherence to any law—cannot bridge this gap. As Isaiah 64:6 tells us, “all our righteous deeds are like a polluted garment.” Consequently, the penalty for this sin is death, both spiritual and eternal (Romans 6:23).
The Divine Solution: God’s Righteousness Revealed
While recognizing the gravity of sin is essential, the Apostle Paul does not leave us without hope. After establishing this universal problem, he immediately points to God’s glorious and perfect solution. Since human beings cannot save themselves, God Himself had to provide the way.
This divine solution centers on God’s own righteousness—a righteousness that is freely given, not earned. Paul introduces this concept earlier in his letter, declaring that the Gospel reveals “the righteousness of God from faith for faith” (Romans 1:17). This righteousness is God’s loving answer to our problem of sin.
The Old Testament Law revealed our inability to meet God’s standards. It acted as a mirror, showing us our sinfulness (Romans 7:7), but it could not make us righteous. Instead, the Law simply highlighted our desperate need for a Savior.
Therefore, God’s divine solution is characterized by:
- An act of His grace: In His immense love and mercy, God chose to provide a way for us to be reconciled to Him. This is not something we merited or earned.
- Righteousness from God: Since we lack righteousness, God provides His own. This righteousness is apart from the Law (Romans 3:21).
- Revealed through faith in Jesus Christ: This divine righteousness is accessed through faith in Jesus Christ. It is offered to all who believe, without distinction (Romans 3:22).
This sets the perfect stage for Romans 3:24. After establishing the universal problem of sin, Paul reveals God’s glorious answer. This solution is found solely in Jesus Christ, the one through whom God’s righteousness is poured out on a sinful world, demonstrating both His justice and His unwavering love.
A Deeper Look at Romans 3:24: Word by Word
What Does ‘Being Justified Freely’ Mean?
Romans 3:24 speaks powerfully of our justification. To be “justified” means God declares us righteous in His sight. This is a legal term, similar to a judge declaring someone “not guilty.” But it goes further: God also credits His own perfect righteousness to our account.
This declaration is not based on our own efforts but is a divine act. We cannot earn it through good deeds or obedience to the law. As Romans 3:20 confirms, “by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight.”
The word “freely” is crucial because it emphasizes that this justification is a gift. It comes at no cost to us; we pay nothing for it. This beautiful truth highlights God’s boundless generosity and love, revealing a grace that overflows, not a wage that is earned.
Consider these key aspects of being justified freely:
- A Divine Declaration: God Himself declares us righteous. This is a verdict from the ultimate Judge.
- Without Merit: Our own actions, good works, or religious performance play no part in earning this status.
- A Gift: It is given freely from God’s heart. We simply receive it through faith.
- Perfect and Complete: Once justified, we stand holy and blameless before God, as if we had never sinned (2 Corinthians 5:21).
This concept frees us from the impossible burden of trying to earn God’s favor. Instead, we rest in His perfect provision through Christ.
How Do We Understand ‘By His Grace’?
Following “justified freely,” Romans 3:24 adds the profound truth, “by His grace.” Grace is God’s unmerited favor—His loving-kindness extended to us even though we are unworthy. We did nothing to deserve it; in fact, our sin earned us judgment, not favor (Romans 3:23).
God’s grace is the very foundation of our salvation. The initiative is entirely His; He reaches out to us not because we first sought Him, but because of His compassionate nature. This same grace not only saves us but also empowers and transforms our lives.
The Bible consistently teaches that salvation is a work of grace, not human effort. For example, Ephesians 2:8-9 states, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” This passage makes it clear that grace is the source and driving force of our salvation.
Understanding “by His grace” involves several truths:
- Unmerited Favor: We receive what we do not deserve. This demonstrates God’s character of love.
- God’s Initiative: Grace originates solely with God. He initiates our reconciliation.
- Power for Transformation: Grace not only saves us but also empowers us to live a new life in Christ (Titus 2:11-12).
- Beyond Human Capacity: No human being could ever generate enough merit to earn God’s favor. Grace bridges this infinite gap.
Ultimately, “by His grace” means that our justification is a testament to God’s incredible, undeserved love for humanity. It is a gift freely given to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
What is ‘The Redemption that is in Christ Jesus’?
The final crucial phrase in Romans 3:24 is “through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” This explains *how* we are justified freely by God’s grace. Redemption refers to the act of buying back or setting free a slave or prisoner by paying a price. We were slaves to sin, held captive by its power and penalty (Romans 6:6).
Jesus Christ is the divine price paid for our freedom. His perfect life, sacrificial death, and glorious resurrection are the ultimate act of redemption. By paying the debt we could never pay, He freed us from the condemnation of sin and the demands of the law.
Through His sacrifice, Jesus fulfilled God’s righteous requirements. He absorbed the wrath of God against sin. This act of redemption is exclusively “in Christ Jesus.” There is no other means or path to freedom. As 1 Peter 1:18-19 declares, “knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold… but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.”
The redemption in Christ Jesus involves:
- A Ransom Paid: Jesus’ life and blood are the precious currency used to buy us back from sin’s bondage (Mark 10:45).
- Freedom from Sin’s Power: We are liberated from the enslaving grip of sin in our lives.
- Deliverance from God’s Wrath: Christ bore our judgment, thus satisfying divine justice.
- New Relationship with God: We are brought into a relationship of sons and daughters, no longer enemies (Colossians 1:13-14).
- Victory Over Death: Through His resurrection, Jesus conquered death, offering us eternal life.
This redemption is central to the Gospel, affirming Jesus Christ as our one and only Savior. As the Son of God, He gave His life to reconcile us to the Father. His mission to redeem us is the ultimate proof of His divinity and unending love.
How Do Different Bible Translations Present Romans 3:24?
Romans 3:24 in the KJV and NKJV
The King James Version (KJV) holds a revered place in Christian tradition for its classic and impactful language. The New King James Version (NKJV) seeks to retain this beauty while offering greater clarity for modern readers. Both translations present Romans 3:24 with striking similarity.
Here is Romans 3:24 as presented in the KJV:
- KJV: “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:”
And here is the NKJV rendering of the same powerful verse:
- NKJV: “being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,”
As you can see, the wording is nearly identical. Both versions powerfully emphasize being “justified freely,” a phrase that highlights God’s unmerited favor. Similarly, their consistent use of “by his grace” underlines the divine origin of our salvation. The phrase “the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” points directly to our Lord and Savior, preserving the timeless truth of God’s saving act.
Romans 3:24 in the NIV and ESV
Modern translations like the popular New International Version (NIV) and English Standard Version (ESV) aim for both accuracy and readability. They strive to make Scripture accessible to a broad audience while maintaining theological precision. Let’s look at how they present Romans 3:24.
The NIV offers this accessible translation:
- NIV: “and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that comes by Christ Jesus.”
The ESV, known for its literal approach to the original texts, states:
- ESV: “and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,”
These versions maintain the core message of God’s grace, though they introduce slight variations in phrasing. For instance, the NIV adds “and all are justified,” tying the verse closely to the preceding context of Romans 3:23. Meanwhile, the ESV clarifies “freely” by translating it as “as a gift,” making the unearned nature of justification unmistakable. Ultimately, both translations powerfully affirm that justification is a gracious act of God, centered in Christ Jesus.
Comparing Key Phrasing Across Versions
While the essence of Romans 3:24 remains consistent across translations, their slight differences in phrasing can offer nuanced insights. These variations can deepen our understanding by highlighting various facets of God’s truth. Let’s compare some key phrases from these influential versions.
| Key Phrase | KJV/NKJV | NIV | ESV |
|---|---|---|---|
| “Justified Freely” | “justified freely” | “justified freely” | “justified by his grace as a gift” |
| “By His Grace” | “by his grace” | “by his grace” | “by his grace” |
| “Redemption” | “through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” | “through the redemption that comes by Christ Jesus” | “through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” |
Here are some crucial points of comparison:
- “Justified Freely”: The KJV, NKJV, and NIV use the direct phrase “justified freely,” conveying an unearned acquittal from guilt. The ESV offers a subtle clarification, translating this idea as “by his grace as a gift.” This wording explicitly emphasizes that justification is a divine present from God, not something earned by human merit (Ephesians 2:8-9).
- “By His Grace”: The crucial phrase “by his grace” appears consistently in all four translations. It underscores that our justification is entirely a work of God, not based on any human effort. Grace is God’s undeserved kindness toward humanity.
- “Redemption in Christ Jesus”: The KJV, NKJV, and ESV use the phrase “redemption that is in Christ Jesus,” which presents Christ as the source or location of our redemption. In contrast, the NIV’s “redemption that comes by Christ Jesus” emphasizes Christ as the active agent who secures it. While the phrasing differs slightly, both convey the same profound truth: Jesus Christ alone paid the price for our freedom from sin (1 Peter 1:18-19).
In conclusion, while the precise wording may vary, the core message of Romans 3:24 remains steadfast across these translations. They all affirm that we are declared righteous by God, not by our own efforts, but solely through His unmerited favor. This justification is made possible by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ—a truth that stands firm as a solid foundation for Christian faith.
What are the Implications of Romans 3:24 for Christian Faith?
Salvation as a Free Gift, Not Earned by Works
Romans 3:24 reveals a profound truth: we are “justified freely by His grace.” This statement fundamentally changes our understanding of salvation. It is not something we earn through good deeds or moral excellence but is instead a pure, unmerited gift from God.
This principle is central to the Christian faith because it clarifies that no amount of human effort can make us righteous enough for God. His grace provides what we cannot achieve on our own. We receive this righteousness simply through faith in Jesus Christ.
Consider these key points about salvation as a gift:
- Divine Initiative: God, in His infinite love, initiated our salvation. He did not wait for us to become worthy.
- Unearned Merit: We are justified “freely,” meaning without cost to us. This comes solely from God’s benevolence.
- Grace Alone: The phrase “by His grace” emphasizes God’s undeserved favor and highlights His generosity.
- Works Excluded: This doctrine directly refutes any notion of salvation by works, as our efforts cannot bridge the gap created by sin.
As Ephesians 2:8-9 clearly states, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” This foundational truth removes all grounds for human boasting and places all glory on God. This understanding is a core tenet for over 2.5 billion Christians globally, shaping their approach to faith and life [1].
Freedom from the Penalty of Sin
Another powerful implication of Romans 3:24 is freedom from the penalty of sin. To be “justified” means that God legally declares us righteous, viewing us as if we had never sinned. For believers, this divine declaration has profound and life-changing consequences.
Before justification, humanity stands condemned. The Bible teaches that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Through Christ’s redemption, however, this penalty is lifted. We no longer face God’s wrath because our sin debt has been paid in full.
This freedom brings immense relief and hope. It means:
- No Condemnation: There is no longer a legal charge against us before God. Romans 8:1 affirms, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”
- Forgiveness: Our past, present, and future sins are forgiven. God chooses to remember them no more.
- Reconciliation: We are brought into a right relationship with God as the barrier of sin is removed.
- New Standing: We are adopted into God’s family, becoming heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).
This freedom is not a license to sin. Rather, it empowers us to live righteously. We are motivated to serve God out of love, not fear of punishment. Our new identity in Christ guides our actions as we are rescued from darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
A Foundation for Gratitude and Worship
Grasping the magnitude of Romans 3:24 naturally leads to heartfelt gratitude. When we understand that salvation is a free gift—secured entirely by God’s grace and Christ’s sacrifice—we are filled with deep thankfulness and a powerful awareness of our dependence on His mercy.
This gratitude becomes a powerful motivator for worship. Our lives become a testament to His goodness, and we desire to honor Him in all we do. True worship springs from a heart transformed by grace.
The implications for our worship are clear:
- Humble Hearts: We approach God with humility, recognizing our unworthiness apart from His grace.
- Joyful Praise: Our worship is filled with joy as we celebrate the freedom and new life we have in Christ.
- Dedicated Lives: Gratitude moves us to live in a way that pleases Him, offering our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1).
- Constant Adoration: Every aspect of life can become an act of worship as we give thanks in all circumstances (Colossians 3:17).
Romans 3:24 teaches us that God’s plan for humanity is rooted in His boundless love. His grace, freely given, justifies us through the redemption found in Jesus Christ. This truth compels us to praise Him without ceasing and reminds us daily of the incredible sacrifice made by our Lord and Savior. He alone is worthy of all honor and glory (Revelation 5:12).
How Does This Verse Connect to the Rest of Scripture?
The Context of Romans 3:25-26
While Romans 3:24 speaks powerfully of our justification as a free gift, it does not leave us wondering how this gift is possible. The following verses, Romans 3:25-26, immediately clarify God’s righteous method, revealing the divine instrument for our redemption: Jesus Christ.
Paul explains that God presented Jesus as a “propitiation,” a profound theological term for an atoning sacrifice. Through His death on the cross, Jesus appeased God’s holy wrath against sin and fully satisfied the demands of His perfect justice (Romans 3:25).
Here are key connections to understand:
- The Means of Atonement: Christ’s blood is central. His sacrifice provides the perfect payment for our sins, which is accessible through faith, not our own efforts.
- God’s Righteousness Revealed: In His patience, God had “passed over” former sins, knowing that Christ’s future sacrifice would provide the just basis for forgiveness. Now, through Jesus, God demonstrates His own righteousness. He proves Himself to be both just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus (Romans 3:26).
- The Role of Faith: Justification in verse 24 comes “through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Verses 25-26 clarify that this redemption is received “through faith in His blood.” Faith is what connects us to this saving act.
These verses show that justification isn’t merely a divine declaration that we are righteous. It is a declaration grounded in the actual, substitutionary work of Jesus Christ. His sacrifice is the foundation for our freedom.
Echoes in Ephesians 2:8-9
The truth of salvation by grace, proclaimed in Romans 3:24, resonates throughout the New Testament. One of its most direct and celebrated echoes is found in Ephesians 2:8-9, which provides a clear and concise summary of God’s plan of salvation.
Ephesians 2:8-9 states, “For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” This passage mirrors the core message of Romans 3:24 in several vital ways:
- Emphasis on Grace: Both passages highlight grace as the source of salvation. It is God’s unmerited favor—a blessing we do not deserve.
- The Role of Faith: Romans makes it clear that we receive redemption “through faith in His blood” (Romans 3:25-26), and Ephesians 2:8 directly affirms that we are saved “through faith.” Both passages teach that faith is the means by which we receive God’s gift of grace.
- Exclusion of Works: Romans 3:24 says our justification is given “freely,” and Ephesians 2:9 explicitly states it is “not of works.” This powerfully rejects any notion that we can earn our salvation. It is a gift, not a wage.
- God’s Sovereignty: Salvation is presented as an act of God from start to finish. It is “not of yourselves” but is “the gift of God,” which removes all human boasting and gives all glory to our Lord.
These verses are not isolated teachings but foundational pillars of Christian doctrine. They consistently affirm that salvation is a sovereign act of God, given to us by grace and received through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Fulfillment of Old Testament Law
Romans 3:24, and the entire book of Romans, profoundly connects to the Old Testament Law. Paul’s argument in Romans 3 builds upon the universal failure to keep the Law (Romans 3:23). The Law served the crucial purpose of revealing sin and God’s holy standards, but it could not provide a remedy for sin.
Romans 3:21 sets the stage perfectly: “But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets.” In other words, the Old Testament itself pointed toward God’s coming solution. That solution is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Consider these points of connection:
- Law’s Revelation, Not Redemption: The Law exposed humanity’s inability to achieve righteousness through self-effort. In this way, it served as a “tutor to bring us to Christ” (Galatians 3:24).
- Sacrificial System: The Old Testament’s sacrificial system pointed toward a final, perfect sacrifice. While animal sacrifices could only temporarily cover sins (Hebrews 9:22), they foreshadowed Jesus—the Lamb of God (John 1:29)—whose blood would truly atone for sin once and for all (Hebrews 10:4-10).
- Prophetic Witness: The Prophets consistently pointed to a coming Messiah who would bring true righteousness and redemption. Isaiah 53, for example, vividly describes Christ’s suffering and atoning work centuries before His birth.
- Jesus Fulfills the Law: Jesus Himself declared He did not come to abolish the Law but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17). He perfectly obeyed its commands and bore its penalty on the cross. His righteousness is now imputed to us through faith.
Therefore, the justification described in Romans 3:24 is not a sudden, new idea. It is the glorious unveiling of God’s eternal plan of salvation—a plan witnessed by the Law and the Prophets that reaches its climax in the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 3:24
What is the meaning of Romans 3:24-25?
Romans 3:24-25 beautifully describes God’s plan for salvation, explaining how sinful people can be made right with a holy God. This passage reveals God’s profound love and justice in perfect harmony.
- Romans 3:24 declares: “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” This means God declares us righteous as a free gift. This gift comes through His “grace,” or undeserved favor, and is made possible by the “redemption” found only in Jesus Christ.
- Romans 3:25 expands on this: “Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.” This verse explains how redemption works. Jesus is the “propitiation”—the atoning sacrifice that satisfies God’s righteous anger against sin.
Through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, His shed blood covers our sins. Because of this, God, in His mercy and patience, overlooks our past transgressions. He now sees us as righteous not because of our own merit but because of Christ’s perfect work. This entire process highlights God’s justice and His boundless love, demonstrating that He Himself provides the way for us to be forgiven (Romans 5:8).
These verses are central to understanding the Gospel. They confirm that salvation is initiated entirely by God. It is a gift received through faith, not earned by human effort (Ephesians 2:8-9).
How does the KJV translate Romans 3:24?
The King James Version (KJV) translates Romans 3:24 with profound clarity and timeless language. It reads:
“Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:”
Let’s unpack the KJV’s rendering of this powerful verse:
- “Being justified freely”: To be “justified” means to be declared righteous or acquitted of guilt. The word “freely” emphasizes that this declaration is an entirely free gift, coming at no cost to us.
- “by his grace”: This points to God’s unmerited favor. Grace is undeserved kindness, and it is the foundation of our salvation. We do nothing to earn it (Titus 3:5).
- “through the redemption”: Redemption means a rescue or deliverance that involves paying a price. In this biblical context, the price was paid to free humanity from its bondage to sin.
- “that is in Christ Jesus”: This crucial phrase identifies both the source and the agent of our redemption. Jesus Christ is not just the one who brings redemption; He *is* our redemption. His life, death, and resurrection constitute the ransom paid for our sin, making Him the only way to achieve this freedom (Acts 4:12).
The KJV’s translation powerfully conveys that salvation is a sovereign act of God, entirely dependent on His grace and the sacrificial work of Jesus Christ.
What is the difference between justification and redemption in this verse?
While justification and redemption are closely linked in Romans 3:24, they describe distinct aspects of God’s work in salvation. Understanding their differences enhances our appreciation for what Christ accomplished.
- Justification:
- Meaning: This is a legal term. It means God, as the divine Judge, declares a guilty sinner to be righteous in His sight.
- Focus: It deals with our legal *standing* before God, resolving the problem of our guilt before His perfect holiness.
- Analogy: Think of a guilty defendant in a courtroom. Through justification, God the Judge declares them “not guilty” and credits them with the perfect righteousness of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:21). It is as if they had never sinned.
- Result: Peace with God and a right standing before Him (Romans 5:1).
- Redemption:
- Meaning: This is a financial term. It means to buy someone out of slavery by paying a ransom. It refers to our deliverance from bondage to sin and death.
- Focus: It deals with our *state* of enslavement, resolving the problem of sin’s power and penalty by paying the price for our freedom.
- Analogy: Think of purchasing a slave’s freedom. The “ransom” paid for us was the precious blood of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19). This payment frees us from both the curse of the law and the power of sin.
- Result: Freedom from the penalty and power of sin, and a transfer from the kingdom of darkness into God’s kingdom (Colossians 1:13-14).
In short, redemption is the *act* of buying us out of slavery to sin. Justification is the legal *verdict* that declares us righteous because of that payment. Redemption provides the basis for our justification, and both are accomplished solely through Christ Jesus, our Lord and Savior (Romans 3:24).