Justification Quote by Thomas R. Schreiner
““How do we correlate what Paul and James teach about justification? To begin, it should be recognized that they are addressing different circumstances and situations. Paul responds to those who desire to keep the law to gain justification, whereas James responds to those who are antinomians — those who think faith without obedience is saving. Neither Paul nor James was writing a treatise on justification. Both were responding to issues facing the churches they addressed.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The New Testament and the Doctrine of Justification, Thomas R. Schreiner, 2010
Paul and James address justification from different angles: Paul counters legalism, James warns against antinomianism, each responding to specific church issues.
In simple terms: Paul fights legalism; James fights lawlessness.
Key Takeaway
Balance faith with obedience and understanding context.
Themes
theology
biblical studies
ethics
church history
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
explanatory
didactic
When to use this quote
- sermon preparation
- Bible study groups
- academic theology
- personal study
Key Concepts
justification
law
faith
obedience
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you apply their teachings today?
- What context matters most for you?
A Different Perspective
Both letters were written for specific early‑church problems, not universal doctrines.
![“To believe the doctrine of it [imputation], or not to believe it, as thus or thus explained, is one thing; and to enjoy the thing, or not to enjoy it, is another. I no way doubt but that many men do receive more grace from God than they understand or will own, and have a greater efficacy of it in…” quote by Thomas R. Schreiner](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b6e/thomas-r-schreiner-44346_quote_to-believe-the-doctrine-of-it-imputation_970287.jpg)
