Ever since the beginning of the Protestant Reformation, the doctrine of
sola fide -- justification through faith alone -- has been at the doctrinal center of evangelical religion. This doctrine was referred to as the material principle of the Reformation, that is, this was the heart of the matter for which the Reformed made their break in protest to Rome. But like so many other biblical teachings, justification has suffered from both neglect and abuse in recent years. Some of the most heated controversies within the church have concerned this doctrine, and with it the essential issue of how a sinner can be right with God.
But justification is not just a doctrinal matter. This subject is of the greatest concern to the day-to-day life of every Christian. J. I. Packer has written that "Justification by faith is like an Atlas: it bears a world on its shoulders, the entire evangelical knowledge of saving grace." The great Puritan, Thomas Watson, commented: "Justification is the very hinge and pillar of Christianity. An error about justification is dangerous, like a defect in a foundation. Justification by Christ is a spring of the water of life."
It is with these beliefs in mind that we will gather for our 38th meeting of the Philadelphia Conference on Reformed Theology to consider the doctrine of justification. Our goal will be more than to reaffirm the cherished convictions of classic theology, but also to return to God's Word for answers to the questions pressing upon us today. The question of how sinners are made right with God is a timeless question, but its answer also needs to be given in light of the struggles of our present world.
We are excited to be returning with PCRT to Sacramento, Grand Rapids, and Philadelphia, and to come to Greenville, SC for the first time. We are certain to be strengthened in the Gospel and better equipped for ministry in today's world. Thank you for joining us as together we will gather before the Scriptures with the theme, Right with God: The Doctrine of Justification. To God alone be the glory!
