Reasonable Faith Podcast Question of the Week #952: Can Catholics and Protestants Come Together on Justification?
Aug 18, 2025
Delve into the intricate theological concepts of justification and sanctification. Explore the historical debates between Catholics and Protestants, focusing on their differing views and the nuances in terminology. Discover how both sides can find common ground through their shared beliefs in God's grace. The discussion emphasizes the importance of faith and spiritual renewal as pathways to unity, despite doctrinal differences. Unpack how justification serves as a legal declaration of righteousness and its transformative power in the believer's life.
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Paul's Justifying Faith Includes Virtue
- Taylor contends Paul's use of 'justified' signals a forensic declaration but also presupposes an infused, virtuous faith within the person.
- He argues justificatory faith in Paul includes moral and intellectual virtues, so justification depends on and brings about infusion of grace.
Terminology Bridges The Divide
- William Lane Craig argues Catholics and Protestants can agree terminology to resolve the dispute over justification and sanctification.
- He says justification is a forensic pardon while sanctification is the distinct moral renewal by the Spirit.
Justification As Legal Pardon
- Craig emphasizes justification is a legal pardon, not an acquittal, removing guilt and granting a new legal status.
- He insists this declaration tells us nothing about inner transformation, which belongs to regeneration and sanctification.