The Active and Passive Obedience of Jesus Christ

Abstract

In this doctrinal essay, Professor Richard Balge explores the biblical and confessional foundations of the teaching that Jesus Christ’s obedience—both active and passive—is central to the Christian doctrine of salvation. Active obedience refers to Christ’s perfect fulfillment of God’s law throughout his life, while passive obedience encompasses his willing suffering and death to bear the punishment for humanity’s sin. Balge draws extensively from Scripture, including Romans 5, Galatians 3, Isaiah 53, and the Gospels, as well as from Lutheran confessional writings such as the Formula of Concord. He emphasizes that Christ’s obedience was not merely exemplary but substitutionary, credited to believers through faith alone. The essay concludes with reflections on the believer’s response: a life of joyful obedience rooted in gratitude for Christ’s saving work. Balge’s treatment is both theological and pastoral, offering clarity and comfort in the gospel of justification by grace through faith. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)