JUSTIFICATION BY FAITH

Meditation for Friday of the 27^th Week in Ordinary Time
(Gal 3:7-14; Lk 11:15-26)

On this fifth day of our meditation on St. Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he takes his argument to the guiding principle that differentiates the true gospel he preached from those that preached “another gospel.” St. Paul’s teachings were guided by the principle of justification by faith, while those who perverted the gospel insisted on justification by law. He argued that it is by faith in Jesus Christ that all are qualified to become children of God. This was prefigured in the Scriptures when God said to Abraham, “In you shall all the nations be blessed.” Hence, St. Paul said, “Those who are men of faith are blessed with Abraham who had faith.” For the righteous shall live by faith. “That in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” Thus, the preaching of the gospel is to build up this saving faith in Christ Jesus. That is why the gospel permeates all cultures and societies, and is relevant at all times.

On the other hand, the perverted gospel is based on law. Such preaching promotes spirituality of punishment and curse, “For all who rely on works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘Cursed be everyone who does not abide by all things written in the book of the law, and do them.’” Since law is usually restrictive, an adulterated gospel message will end up promoting segregation among believers. By placing emphasis on one’s observance of the law, self-righteousness will go ahead of grace in the lives of those who embrace the perverted gospel message. How then can one talk about the unmerited grace to the glory of God?

 

That is why we must be watchful so that we will not be distracted from the true gospel message, which builds up our faith in Jesus Christ, in whom we are justified, and in whom every requirement of the law is fulfilled. Think about how those selfish men tried to distract the people from believing in Jesus by calling Him Beelzebul. Jesus answered them, “If it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the Kingdom of God has come upon you.” As Jesus cast out the demon, so faith in Him sets us free from the curse of the law, and uplifts us to the free working of His grace, which inspires our actions, and brings to us Abraham’s blessings. Amen.

 

Fr Jude Chinwenwa Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R

Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church,

Tedi-Muwo, Ojo, Lagos.

Friday October 7, 2022.

Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary

www.nwachinwe.blogspot.com