Reviewing N.T. Wright's response to John Piper
N.T. Wright’s book, Justification: God's Plan & Paul's Vision, is a concise and thorough contribution to the hotly debated conversation regarding the doctrine of Justification, which is defined as the action of declaring or making righteous in the sight of God. Wright clearly articulates his points and addresses many of the critiques he has received regarding his understanding of Justification. In many ways, this book is a condensed treatment of his larger works rather than a new thesis propagating a different position.
One should also note that this book is particularly addressed towards Reformed theologian, John Piper, who had previously written a work of the same name to combat Wright’s views.
Whether one agrees with Wright or not, his treatment of various biblical texts in light of its historical context to better comprehend Paul’s understanding of justification is undoubtedly worth reading.
To put it simply, Wright defines justification as a present declaration of an individual’s righteousness (i.e. their being in the right) based off his/her newfound identity in Christ. This declaration follows conversion/regeneration rather than preceding it/being equated to it, and it in no way entails imputation of an alien righteousness (i.e. Christ’s righteousness). To be justified then is to be forgiven of sins, based off Christ’s work on the cross, and to be considered a part of the covenanted people of God.
Other Titles You Might Enjoy:
Justification: Five Views, Edited by James K. Beilby and Paul Rhodes Eddy
A Reformation Debate, Edited by John C. Olin with letters from John Calvin and Cardinal Jacopo Sadoleto
Faith Alone: The Evangelical Doctrine of Justification, by R.C. Sproul
The Future of Justification: A Response to N.T. Wright, by John Piper
Justification Reconsidered: Rethinking a Pauline Theme, by Stephen Westerholm