Getting the Right Message Out - And Getting It Out the Right Way - With Emphasis on Public Worship and Classroom Instruction

Abstract

This essay explores the centrality of justification in Christian doctrine, worship, and instruction. Bivens affirms justification as the declaratory act of God, forgiving sinners through Christ’s atonement, and critiques theological distortions that obscure its forensic and objective nature. He addresses common misunderstandings—such as conditional forgiveness, moralizing, and gospel dilution—and emphasizes the need for clear, unconditional proclamation of Christ’s work. The essay applies justification to public worship, classroom teaching, and outreach, advocating for doctrinal clarity, liturgical stability, and gospel-centered communication. Bivens warns against compromising substance for style and urges faithful use of law and gospel to reach both churched and unchurched audiences. Ultimately, he calls for trust in God’s Word and Spirit to effect transformation, encouraging believers to proclaim justification boldly and accurately in all settings. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)