What does the Bible say about being justified before God?

The concern of Job in his conversation with his friends centers around the profound question of how man can be justified before God. This question is foundational in Christian theology and speaks to the doctrine of justification by faith. In Romans 5:1, Paul states, 'Therefore, being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.' Justification means that God declares a sinner to be righteous on account of Christ. This is not based on any works or merit within us, but solely through faith in Jesus, who bore our sin and was punished in our place.

Furthermore, Ephesians 2:8-9 clarifies that salvation is a gift from God, not of works, lest any man should boast. Job's dilemma reflects the universal struggle of humanity to understand how a holy God can reconcile with sinful man. The answer lies in the redemptive work of Christ and the grace extended to the elect. Those who are called and believe are assured of their justified status before God, not because of their righteousness, but through Christ’s righteousness attributed to them.