Christ’s Righteousness Imputed, Not Infused (Chapter 11, Paragraph 3)

“Christ, by His obedience and death…”

This opening clause once again holds together the active obedience (His perfect life under the law) and passive obedience (His death under the curse). Both are essential for our justification.

“…did fully discharge the debt of all those that are justified…”

Justification means that the full debt of our sin is paid in full. There is no remaining balance, no purgatory, no unfinished atonement.

“…and did, by the sacrifice of Himself in the blood of His cross… make a proper, real, and full satisfaction to God’s justice in their behalf.”

This is not symbolic or partial. It is a real transaction. God’s justice was satisfied—fully and finally—on behalf of those who are justified.

“Yet, inasmuch as He was given by the Father for them, and His obedience and satisfaction accepted in their stead…”

Christ’s life and death were not random or general. They were offered specifically for the elect, and accepted by the Father in their place.

“…their justification is only of free grace…”

Grace alone. Not grace plus merit, not grace plus effort. This guards the gospel from all human boasting.

“…that both the exact justice and rich grace of God might be glorified…”

God’s justice is not compromised in saving sinners. Instead, it is upheld, because Christ bore the wrath. And His grace is magnified, because we did nothing to deserve it.

“God did from all eternity decree to justify all the elect…”

Justification is not a late addition to God’s plan. It was decreed before the world began, just as election was (Eph. 1:4–5).

“…and Christ did in the fullness of time die for their sins, and rise again for their justification.”

This reflects Romans 4:25—He “was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.” The resurrection is the proof that the payment was accepted.

“Nevertheless, they are not justified personally, until the Holy Spirit does in due time actually apply Christ unto them.”

Though the decree is eternal and the work is finished, the application happens in time. No one is born justified. The Spirit must apply Christ to us through regeneration and faith.

Application for the Believer:

Rest in the perfect righteousness of Christ imputed to you. Your standing before God does not fluctuate with your feelings or performance. It is as unchanging as Christ Himself. When you sin, look not to yourself, but to your substitute. When accused by Satan or conscience, remind yourself that Christ’s record is yours. This gives freedom from despair and pride. It also fuels holiness—not to earn favor, but because favor has already been given. Rejoice! You are clothed in a righteousness not your own, accepted forever by the Judge of all, because Jesus stood in your place.