Such, in brief, is the Lutheran doctrine of “Justification by Faith.”  We have not thought it necessary to quote from the Augsburg Confession or the Formula of Concord for proof.  Neither is it necessary or desirable that we lengthen out this chapter with quotations from standard theologians.  Any one desiring further proof or amplification can find abundance of it in all our Confessions, and in all recognized writers in the Church.  Nor have we taken up the space with Scripture quotations.  To quote all that the Bible says on the subject would be to transcribe a large proportion of its passages.  It would necessitate especially a writing out of a large part of the writings of Paul, who makes it the great theme of several of his epistles.  Every devout reader of Paul’s letters will find this great doctrine shining forth in every chapter, so much so that the Romish Bishop who was driven by Luther to a study of the New Testament threw down his book and said:  “Paul also has become a Lutheran!”

In conclusion, we desire to impress one thought.  The doctrine of Justification is so highly prized by the believer, not so much because of the grand and matchless scheme it brings to light, as because of the peace and comfort it has brought into his heart.  He who truly embraces this doctrine, realizes its efficacy and power.  It is precious to him, above all things, as a matter of personal experience.  This experience is not the doctrine, but the result of receiving it.  He has realized the blessedness of having his own sins forgiven, his transgressions covered.  Being justified by faith, he has peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

This blessed experience was the root and spring of Luther’s courage and strength.  Without this heart-experience, all theorizing about the doctrine is vain.  Such a scriptural experience never develops a Pharisee.  It never runs into self-exaltation.  It constantly exalts and magnifies Christ.  It habitually humbles self.  It lays self low at the foot of the cross, and remains there.  Not that it is a gloomy or despondent spirit.  For while it constantly mourns over the imperfections and sins of self, it, at the same time, constantly rejoices in the full and perfect salvation of Christ.  While it never ceases in this life to shed the tears of penitence, it also never ceases to sing the joyful song of deliverance.  It develops a Christian after the type of Paul and Luther, and Gerhard and Francke.  Blessed is he who understands and experiences justification by faith.  Doubly sad the state of him who has the doctrine, without its experience and peace and glory.

     “Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness
      My beauty are, my glorious dress;
      Midst flaming worlds, in these arrayed,
      With joy shall I lift up my head.

     “Bold shall I stand in that great day,
      For who aught to my charge shall lay? 
      Fully through these absolved I am
      From sin and fear, from guilt and shame.