Reformation: Justification
Righteousness shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification. Romans 4:24-25
The word “objective” means that something is true outside of you–not based on your personal feelings or condition. Such as the fact that the laws of gravity are true and act upon you whether you know about them, understand them, or agree with them. Sometimes the terms “universal justification” and “objective justification” are used as synonyms. But in truth, that’s not exactly the case. The fact that justification is universal is one way in which it is objective. But it is not the only way. Christ’s work is also objective in that it was and remains finished before and outside of you. It is true apart from anything you do or think or believe.
When Jesus proclaimed “It is finished” on the cross, that meant that justification was complete. Or as Paul puts it, “righteousness shall be imputed to us who believe in Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead, who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.”
His death and resurrection mean that all is done. Everything that was necessary for your sins to be forgiven and your debt to be paid was complete when Jesus left the tomb empty. He who died for your sins left them buried in the grave so that Satan’s threats and accusations are now as empty as Jesus’ tomb. Therefore, there is nothing left for you to do to earn it. This is why Paul writes in Romans 5:1, “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
There is no level of goodness you have to reach to be worthy. There is no one else you have to be better than to earn it, there are no strings attached, no bargains, no payments left outstanding. “It is finished!” (John 19:30)
Thy works not mine, O Christ, speak gladness to this heart;
They tell me all is done, they bid my fear depart.
To whom save Thee, who canst alone for sin atone, Lord, shall I flee?
Lutheran Service Book 565:1