Calvin affirms Paul's teaching that justification is through faith in Jesus Christ, not by the works of the law. Calvin challenges the misconception that adherence to Old Testament ceremonial laws can render a person righteous before God. He asserts that such a belief wrongly means that human merit can secure divine favor, which contradicts the covenantal foundation that requires perfect obedience—something humans cannot achieve. Calvin dives into the distinction between Jews and Gentiles, highlighting that even Jews, God's chosen people and recipients of the law, were not inherently righteous. He judges the Jews' arrogance, noting that their heritage and privileges did not exempt them from the need for faith in Christ for justification. Calvin's commentary indicates the universality of sin and the essential of divine grace, stating that no human effort can merit salvation; it is only through faith in Christ that one can be justified. Additionally, Calvin examines the Roman Catholic stance that faith must be integrated by human merits, arguing that this undermines the Gospel's message. He varies the law and faith: the law demands perfect obedience, disclosing human insufficiency, while faith recognizes human inadequacy and depends entirely on Jesus Christ for salvation. Calvin maintains that true justification is achieved by faith alone, excluding any human boasting or self-righteousness. Also, Calvin explains that justification indicates God's forgiveness and cleansing, making us righteous through Christ's atonement. He addresses why Scripture uses the term 'justify' rather than simpler expressions like God's love, pointing out that justification recognizes our sinful nature and the fundamental of Christ's redemptive work. Trusting in Jesus requires acknowledging our lost state due to sin, displaying our need to be made right with God. Lastly, Calvin critiques the superficial intuitiveness of faith as simple belief, reiterating that true faith involves rich, genuine trust in Jesus Christ. He repeats that salvation is not achieved through works but through faith in Jesus Christ, nullifying any grounds for pride based on personal virtues or religious adherences. True faith in Jesus Christ eclipses mere belief, representing a metamorphic relationship that brings justification, sanctification, and eternal hope.
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