This Bible study, “St. Paul: Refuting Justification by Faith Alone,” dives deep into the heart of what it means to be made right with God. We’ll explore St. Paul’s letters, particularly Romans and Galatians, not to dismiss faith, but to understand its proper role within the economy of salvation. We will see that faith is absolutely necessary, being the initial grace that moves us toward God, but that it is not the *sole* element that justifies us. Rather, St. Paul insists on the necessity of obedience to God’s commandments, the sacraments, and the work of love that flows from genuine faith. Ultimately, we will demonstrate how his writings, when properly understood in the light of Tradition, emphasize a *faith working through charity* (Galatians 5:6) as the path to true justification.
This study will examine passages often cited in support of “faith alone” to unveil their fuller meaning, emphasizing the inseparable connection between faith, hope, and charity. We’ll discuss the importance of baptism as the moment of initial justification, the ongoing need for repentance and participation in the sacraments, especially Confession and the Eucharist, to maintain a state of grace. Furthermore, we will explore how St. Paul’s life exemplified a commitment to both belief *and* action, and how this is consistent with the teachings of Christ. By unpacking these concepts, we aim to equip participants with a deeper understanding of Catholic teaching on salvation and to cultivate a more vibrant and fruitful Christian life rooted in both faith and good works.
Download the full Bible study: 📄 St. Paul: Refuting Justification by Faith Alone (PDF)