We are justified by faith in Christ.
In order that no one may think we are speaking of a mere knowledge of the history of Christ, we must state, in the first place, in what manner the heart begins to believe, and how it attains faith. Afterwards we shall show, that this faith justifies before God, and how this is to be understood; and we shall endeavor, properly, clearly and fully to refute the arguments of our adversaries. Christ, Luke 24:47, commands the preaching of repentance and remission of sins. The Gospel* also charges all men with being born in sin, and being worthy of eternal wrath and death, and offers them remission of sin and righteousness through Christ, which are received through faith. (Henkel Translation, p. 168-169, * Here the word Gospel—like the first four books of the New Testament—includes both doctrines of Law-repentance and Gospel-remission of sin).