Which one first? Atonement or justification?

24 Jan 2007

Scripture:
"Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. (Rom 5v1)

Here's a short quiz. Which one comes first in the life of a Christian?
1) Atonement, followed by justification or
2) Justification, followed by atonement

Firstly, all men have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
Secondly, the wages of sin is death.
Thirdly, we are seperated from God because of our sins.
Fourthly, Jesus became man to die for our sins. His death wiped away our sin, making it possible for us to reconcile to God, our Father.
Finally, because of what Jesus had done, we can appear righteous before God because Jesus blood was shed for us and made us clean.

Based on the above description, what is your answer?

Dear Jesus, thank you for being the sacrificial lamb. Your death brought about my atonement of my sin. It is because of you that I can be reconciled to the Heavenly Father. Your blood was shed for me and death passed me. Now, I am brought from the dark to the light. I became the child of God. My nature is no longer to be subjected to the world and it carnal desires. You have made me a new creation, a spiritual being, filled in the Holy Spirit. Empower me to live and work to the glory of your name. I am justified (made righteous) through faith in Jesus, for He is my righteousness.

Praise be to God, the highest.
Amen.