Bible Word Studies Series
Original Language
Language: Greek
Word: Dikaioō (δικαιόω)
Pronunciation: dik-ah-YO-oh
Basic Meaning: To declare righteous; to be acquitted or counted as right before God.
Key Scripture
“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
— Romans 5:1 (KJV)
Biblical Meaning
The word dikaioō, translated as “justified,” is a legal term meaning to be declared righteous. In Scripture, justification refers to God declaring a sinner righteous through faith in Jesus Christ.
This does not mean the believer has never sinned. Instead, it means that the righteousness of Christ has been credited to them. God no longer sees the believer as guilty, but as justified because of Christ’s finished work.
Where This Word Appears
- Romans 5:1 — “Being justified by faith, we have peace with God.”
- Romans 3:24 — “Being justified freely by his grace.”
- Galatians 2:16 — “A man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ.”
Spiritual Insight
Justification is central to the Gospel. It shows that salvation is not based on human effort, but on the righteousness of Christ. When a person trusts in Christ, their sin is forgiven and Christ’s righteousness is applied to their account.
This truth brings peace with God. The believer no longer stands under judgment but is fully accepted because of Christ.
Application
Understanding justification gives believers confidence in their salvation. Our standing before God is not based on our performance, but on Christ’s righteousness.
This truth removes fear and replaces it with peace. It also encourages humility, knowing that our acceptance with God is entirely by grace.
Each day, believers can live with the assurance that they are justified through faith in Jesus Christ.