Lenten Season · Third Sunday of Lent · Year C
If First Scrutiny of the Elect: Romans 5:1-2, 5-8
Peace and Joy
March 19, 2028
Overview & Insights
“Since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1)
Romans 5 has been much debated in terms of its context: does it belong with 1:18–4:25, or does it begin a new unit?1Most scholars today believe that although chapter 5 does connect back to 1:18–4:25 (since the topic of justification so pervasive there occurs also in 5:1, 9, 16–19, 21), it most likely begins a new unit that concludes in 8:39. Several arguments indicate that this is the case. First, the opening words of 5:1, “Since we have been justified by faith,” summarize the theme of 1:18–4:25 while preparing the way for a new topic. Second, the polemical tone of 1:18–4:25 is replaced in chapter 5 with one of camaraderie, signaled by Paul’s use of the first-person plural. Third, the prevalence of key vocabulary from Romans 1:17—“the righteous will live by faith”—indicates that a shift in focus occurs between 1:18–4:25 and 5:1–8:39.
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Commentary
Commentary on Romans 5:1-11 Working Preacher
Lectionary commentary on the benefits of justification and hope that does not disappoint.
Romans 5 Commentary: Benefits of Being Justified Enduring Word
Evangelical verse-by-verse commentary on peace with God through faith.
Romans 5:1-8 Commentary Center for Excellence in Preaching
Reformed preaching commentary on suffering, endurance and hope in the passage.
Romans 5:1-2 Commentary Precept Austin
Detailed word study notes on justification and access to grace.
Romans 5 (Haydock Commentary) haydockcommentary.com
Catholic Haydock notes on peace with God through Christ.
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What does justification by faith give?
Being justified, we have peace with God, and even suffering produces hope, for God shows his love in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.
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