CPYU Parent Prompts are a regularly released resource to spark biblically-centered conversations with your kids about the issues they face in today’s youth culture.
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By: Tim McAlpine, CPYU Research Fellow and Director of Faith Formation at Trinity Christian School, Calgary, AB, Canada
Justification is one of the most liberating truths in the Christian faith. It means that through faith in Jesus Christ, we are declared righteous before God—not because of what we have done, but because of what Christ has done for us. This truth transforms our perspective on ourselves, others, and God.
(W)ORLD: What is Happening?
- In today’s world, identity and worth are often determined by performance. Students feel pressure to achieve perfect grades, athletes strive for flawless performances, and adults chase professional success or approval on social media. The underlying message is clear: You are what you produce. This constant striving creates exhaustion, comparison, and shame when we fall short.
- Culturally, we have established a “justification system” rooted in self-achievement. Whether it’s being “good enough,” “liked enough,” or “successful enough,” we all strive to prove our worth. Even in spiritual contexts, people may slip into the belief that God loves them more when they behave well or complete enough religious actions. This mindset fuels anxiety and robs joy because the standard is constantly shifting.
- The gospel of justification directly challenges this cultural pressure. It tells us that our standing before God doesn’t depend on our moral performance or personal effort—it relies on Jesus’ finished work. In a world where students, parents, and teachers constantly ask, “Am I enough?”, the doctrine of justification answers boldly: “You are made right with God by grace, through faith alone, not by works.” This truth provides deep rest and identity for families striving to live faithfully in a performance-driven age.
(W)ORD: What does god’s word say?
Scripture clearly shows that justification is God’s gracious act of declaring sinners righteous through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:23–24 states, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and are justified by His grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” Every person is guilty before a holy God, but justification is God’s declaration that—because of Christ—we are no longer condemned.
In justification, our sin is credited to Jesus, and His righteousness is credited to us (2 Corinthians 5:21). This is sometimes called “the great exchange.” We don’t earn or add to it; it’s received by faith alone. Paul writes in Galatians 2:16, “A person is not justified by works of the law but through faith in Jesus Christ.” The basis of our acceptance before God is entirely outside of ourselves.
This truth transforms everything. We don’t work for God’s approval; we operate from His approval. Justification assures believers that their relationship with God is secure, not based on fluctuating feelings or flawed performance. It’s not about trying harder but trusting more deeply. The cross becomes the foundation of our identity and peace. Knowing we are justified frees us from guilt, encourages obedience out of love, and changes how we view others—not as rivals for worth but as fellow recipients of grace.
(W)ALK: Conversation Starts and Questions:
The doctrine of justification can change how your family views effort, failure, and grace. These conversation starters aim to help link gospel truth to daily life.
- Performance Pressure:
Ask your child, “Where do you feel pressure to be ‘good enough’—school, sports, or friendships?” Discuss how Jesus’ perfect life means we don’t have to earn God’s approval. Encourage them to rest in what He’s already accomplished. - Grace vs. Earning:
Talk about how easy it is to slip into believing we must earn God’s love. Share a time when you’ve felt that way and how God reminded you of His grace. Then read Ephesians 2:8–9 together: “It is by grace you have been saved, through faith… not by works.” - Identity in Christ:
Ask, “What would change in your day if you truly believed God already loves and accepts you?” Help them see that justification means they are fully loved and righteous in Christ—even on their worst day. - Relating to Others:
Discuss how justification shapes how we treat others, especially regarding forgiveness. When we know we’re forgiven, it becomes easier to forgive others freely. - Family Practice:
End by thanking God for His grace. Pray together, confessing the ways you try to earn approval and rejoicing that Christ has already secured your standing before God.
When families embrace justification, they shift from striving to resting, from guilt to gratitude, and from self-focus to Christ-focus.
“Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 5:1
FURTHER READING:
Systematic Theology – Wayne Grudem (Chapter 36)
Knowing God’s Truth – Jon Nielson (Chapter 7)
12 Truths Every Teen Can Trust – Paul Tripp (Chapter 9)
https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-great-exchange
Download the Parent Prompt here.