The Doctrine of Justification by Faith

But the Apostle further adds in the description of the Subject of Justification that God justifieth the ungodly. This is that expression which hath stirred up so much wrath amongst many, and on the account whereof, some seem to be much displeased with the Apostle himself. If any other person dare but say that God justifieth the ungodly, he is presently reflected on, as one that by his Doctrine would overthrow the necessity of Godliness, Holiness, Obedience, or Good Works. For what need can there be of any of them, if God justifieth the ungodly? Howbeit this is a Periphrasis of God that he is [Greek or Hebrew] he that justifieth the ungodly; this is his Prerogative and Property, as such will he be believed in and worshipped, which adds weight and Emphasis unto the Expression. And we must not forego this Testimony of the Holy Ghost, let men be as angry as they please.

But the Apostle further adds in the description of the Subject of Justification that God justifieth the ungodly. This is that expression which hath stirred up so much wrath amongst many, and on the account whereof, some seem to be much displeased with the Apostle himself. If any other person dare but say that God justifieth the ungodly, he is presently reflected on, as one that by his Doctrine would overthrow the necessity of Godliness, Holiness, Obedience, or Good Works. For what need can there be of any of them, if God justifieth the ungodly? Howbeit this is a Periphrasis of God that he is 〈non-Latin alphabet〉 he that justifieth the ungodly; this is his Prerogative and Property, as such will he be believed in and worshipped, which adds weight and Emphasis unto the Expression. And we must not foregoe this Testimony of the Holy Ghost, let men be as angry as they please.

But the difference is about the meaning of the words. If so, it may be allowed without mutual offence, though we should mistake their proper sense. Only it must be granted, that God justifieth the ungodly. That is, say some, those who formerly were ungodly, not those who continue ungodly when they are justified. And this is most true. All that are justified ⟨p. 457⟩