Justification is by faith because it is a legal declaration made by God based on Christ's atoning sacrifice, not our actions or beliefs.
Justification by faith is foundational to Reformed theology, affirmed in Romans 5:1, which states, 'Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.' This declaration of righteousness comes through the imputation of Christ's righteousness to the believer, rather than any inherent goodness or lawkeeping on our part. The works of the law cannot justify anyone; rather, it is Christ's faithfulness in fulfilling the law and atoning for sin that leads to our justification. This truth helps us understand that our standing before God rests entirely on what Christ has done for us, not on our own merits.
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