Dr. Beeke looks at Justification in terms of three questions from the Heidelberg catechism. In the process, he sometimes compares the reformation doctrine of justification to that of the Roman church.
In the initial 15 minutes or so, he sets the groundwork by reading three catechism questions and the answers to them; then he states the 4 divisions of the sermon: the definition, experience, means and benefits of justification.
Scriptures considered: Luke 18:9-14; Romans 5:1-11
Sermon highlights from the 15 minute mark:
- Justification has two parts: forgiveness of sin and the right to eternal life
- The double obedience of Christ explained
- Justification is a courtroom term regarding a declaration made by God the Father
- Justification is the answer to the age-old question “How can I, a sinner, stand before God on the day of judgment?” I have a bad heart and a bad record, having sinned every day; only by the satisfaction of the blood of Christ.
- This is the great difference between the Roman Catholic Church (RCC) and Protestantism — a detailed explanation
- Five different definitions of justification from the Bible
- How does one glean assurance from his justification? Explained
- Reformed Protestantism believes that a sinner can do nothing to be justified; then how can one be justified? Explained
- When God justifies a sinner, He brings him into His court as an ungodly sinner for whom Christ died: the Good News explained
- Like the Publican, God brings a sinner to the point that he sees that he is vile and deserving of hell, and Christ is his only hope: all who come to that point, like the Publican, go home justified because they throw themselves upon Christ, their only hope
- Differences between the Publican and the Pharisee contrasted
- The Publican believed himself unworthy, surrendered to God as a beggar, owned his sins and sinfulness…and pleaded for mercy
- The Pharisee was unable to see such things in himself even though they were there, as God the Holy Spirit had not given him an understanding or insight into his sin
- In the courtroom of God, Satan accuses us, as does our conscience, the law, and the world; but therein, Jesus is our defense attorney…
- Saving faith is a gift from God; anyone who thinks faith is a work is Arminian who believes one is saved for believing; the reformers believe one is saved by believing
- Faith surrenders to the gospel; falls into the outstretched arms of God; flees from personal guilt to Christ’s righteousness…
- Eleven benefits of justification listed
To know more about the humility the Publican experienced, see, Categories: Beatitude Life; True Kingdom Citizen.
For other posts on justification, see Categories Justification.