Romans 8:33
Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.
Romans 8:33
Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. The rhetorical question asserts the absolute security of believers before God’s verdict. The “elect” are those whom God has chosen and united to Christ; their legal standing is vindicated by God’s act of justification. Since God alone has declared believers righteous, no accusation can prevail against them. Christ’s death and resurrection, and the Spirit’s work, maintain this justification.
This verse centers justification as God’s sovereign, objective act that cannot be overturned by human or spiritual accusations. It anchors the believer’s identity in God’s verdict rather than in performance. It also reinforces the assurance of salvation—despite guilt, sin, or Satan’s charges, God’s declarative judgment stands.
When guilt or condemnation tries to sting, declare with confidence: I am justified by God. Practice confession and receive forgiveness, but rest in the certainty of God’s verdict. In ministry, extend grace to others who struggle with shame, pointing them to Christ’s completed work and God’s ongoing justification. This outlook invites freedom to pursue holiness not out of fear of judgment but out of gratitude for pardon.
Cross-References: Galatians 3:21-26; Romans 5:9-10; Romans 8:1; Isaiah 43:25; Psalm 103:12