The Doctrine of Justification by Faith

Answ. This exception derives from that common Objection against the Doctrine of Justification by Faith alone; namely that, That exclusive term alone, is not found in the Scripture, or in any of the Testimonies that are produced for Justification by Faith. But it is replied with sufficient evidence of Truth, that although the word be not found Syllabically used unto this purpose; yet there are exceptive Expressions equivalent unto it, as we shall see afterwards. It is so in this particular instance also. For (1) whereas our Justification is expressly ascribed unto our Faith in the Blood of Christ, as the Propitiation for our Sins, unto our believing in him as Crucified for us, and it is no where ascribed unto our receiving of him as King, Lord, or Prophet; it is plain, that the former Expressions are virtually exclusive of the later consideration. (2) I do not say, That the consideration of the Kingly and Prophetical Offices of Christ is excluded from our Justification, as works are excluded in Opposition unto Faith and Grace. For they are so excluded, as that we are to exercise an act of our minds in their positive Rejection, as saying, Get you hence, you have no Lot nor Portion in this matter. But as to these Offices of Christ, as to the Object of Faith as Justifying, we say only that they are not included therein. For so to believe to be justified by his Blood, as to exercise a positive act of the mind, excluding a compliance with his other Offices, is an impious Imagination.

Answ. This exception derives from that common Objection against the Doctrine of Justification by Faith alone; namely that, That exclusive term alone, is not found in the Scripture, or in any of the Testimonies that are produced for Justification by Faith. But it is replyed with sufficient evidence of Truth, that although the word be not found Syllabically used unto this purpose; yet there are exceptive Expressions equivalent unto it, as we shall see afterwards. It is so in this particular instance also. For (1) whereas our Justification is expresly ascribed unto our Faith in the Blood of Christ, as the Propitiation for our Sins, unto our believing in him as Crucified for us, and it is no where ascribed unto our receiving of him as King, Lord, or Prophet; it is plain, that the former Expressions are virtually exclusive of the later consideration. (2) I do not say, That the consideration of the Kingly and Prophetical Offices of Christ is excluded from our Justification, as works are excluded in Opposition unto Faith and Grace. For they are so excluded, as that we are to exercise an act of our minds in their positive Rejection, as saying, Get you hence, you have no Lot nor Portion in this matter. But as to these Offices of Christ, as to the Object of Faith as Justifying, we say only that they are not included therein. For so to believe to be justified by his Blood, as to exercise a positive act of the mind, excluding a compliance with his other Offices, is an impious Imagination.