Romans 5:1 – “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is a powerful statement about the reality of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. It begins with the word “therefore,” which connects it to the earlier chapters of Romans where Paul explains that all people—both Jews and Gentiles—are sinners and in need of salvation. In chapter 4, he uses Abraham as an example of how faith, not works, makes someone right with God. Now, in Romans 5:1, Paul declares the result of this faith: we are justified.

To be justified means to be declared righteous in God’s sight. This is not something we can achieve by our own efforts, but it is a gift given by God through faith in Jesus. Because of this justification, we now have peace with God. This peace is not just an emotional feeling but a change in our standing before Him. Before, we were enemies of God because of sin (Romans 5:10), but now, through Christ, we are reconciled to Him. This peace is possible only through our Lord Jesus Christ—not through good works, religious rituals, or human efforts, but by trusting in what Jesus has done.

Historical Context

Paul wrote the book of Romans around A.D. 57, during his third missionary journey, likely from Corinth. At this time, the Roman Empire ruled much of the known world, and there was significant tension between Jews and Gentiles, especially within the church. Some Jewish Christians struggled with the idea that faith alone, apart from the Law of Moses, was enough for salvation. Gentile believers, on the other hand, needed to understand their inclusion in God’s plan.

Paul’s message of justification by faith was radical. The Jewish people were used to a system of sacrifices and law-keeping to maintain their relationship with God. But Paul was making it clear that salvation had always been based on faith—even for Abraham, long before the Law was given. This message also challenged the Roman culture, where many people worshiped false gods and trusted in the power of the empire rather than in the true God.

Theological Implications

This verse is foundational for understanding the doctrine of justification by faith. It teaches that:

• We are made right with God not by our own efforts, but by faith in Jesus.
• Peace with God is a result of justification, not something we must strive to achieve.
• Jesus Christ is the only way to be made right with God.

This truth is central to the gospel. If our salvation depended on our works, we would always live in uncertainty, wondering if we had done enough. But because justification comes by faith, we can have confidence in our relationship with God.

Literary Analysis

Romans 5:1 is structured as a logical conclusion to Paul’s argument in the previous chapters. The phrase “since we have been justified through faith” establishes a cause-and-effect relationship: because we are justified, we have peace with God.

The phrase “peace with God” is significant. In the original Greek, the word for peace (eirēnē) means more than just an absence of conflict. It refers to a restored relationship, a state of well-being, and a wholeness that only God can provide. This peace is not dependent on circumstances but is a permanent reality for those who trust in Christ.

Biblical Cross-References

• Ephesians 2:8-9 – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” This reinforces that justification comes by faith, not works.
• Isaiah 53:5 – “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” This connects our peace with God to Jesus’ sacrifice.
• Colossians 1:21-22 – “Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior. But now he has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.” This confirms that before salvation, we were at odds with God, but now we are reconciled.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Many people today live with anxiety, guilt, and uncertainty about their standing before God. Some believe they must earn God’s approval, while others feel hopeless because of their past. Romans 5:1 reassures believers that peace with God is not based on our performance but on Christ’s finished work.

This peace is unshakable. Even when life is difficult, when we struggle with sin, or when we face trials, our relationship with God remains secure. This verse reminds us to rest in the truth that we are justified and at peace with Him.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reveals the heart of God’s love. He did not leave us in our sin but made a way for us to be justified and to experience peace with Him. Justification is an act of grace—something we did not earn but was freely given. The fact that God offers peace to sinners who once rebelled against Him shows His incredible mercy and kindness.

Many people view God as distant, angry, or hard to please, but this verse tells a different story. It shows that God desires reconciliation, not separation. His love is seen in the way He removes the barrier of sin and welcomes us into a relationship with Him through Jesus.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Romans 5:1 makes it clear that peace with God is possible only through Jesus Christ. He is the one who justifies us, and without Him, we remain in sin and separation from God.

• John 14:6 – Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” This confirms that Jesus is the only way to have peace with God.
• 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” This shows how Jesus took our place and gave us His righteousness.
• Hebrews 7:25 – “Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he always lives to intercede for them.” Jesus continually intercedes for believers, ensuring that our peace with God is permanent.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you believe that you are justified by faith alone, or do you sometimes feel like you need to earn God’s approval?
2. How does knowing you have peace with God change the way you live?
3. What are some areas of your life where you struggle to trust in Christ’s finished work?
4. How can you share the truth of this verse with someone who feels distant from God?
5. What does this verse teach you about God’s character and His love for you?

Romans 5:1 is a verse filled with hope. It reminds us that because of Jesus, we are justified, we are at peace with God, and we can rest in the security of His grace.