How does justification relate to faith?

Justification, in the context of Christian theology, particularly as articulated in the Westminster Shorter Catechism, is fundamentally understood as being declared righteous before God on the basis of faith alone. This concept is rooted in biblical texts such as Romans 3:28, where it is stated that a person is justified by faith apart from works of the law.

When justification is said to be "solely dependent on one's faith alone," it emphasizes that faith serves as the means through which an individual receives the righteousness of Christ. It is not based on personal merit or good deeds, but rather on trust in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. This highlights the grace of God, as justification is seen as a gift that cannot be earned; it is received through belief and reliance on Jesus.

In this light, faith is essential to justification, as it connects the believer to Christ and His righteousness. By placing faith in Christ, believers are counted as righteous, thus justifying them in the sight of God. This distinction underscores the centrality of faith in the process of salvation and the believer’s relationship with God.