What term refers to the transformation of the sinner by God's grace, accomplished through Baptism?

• A. Sanctification
• B. Justification
• C. Reconciliation
• D. Redemption

Answer: (B)

Justification is the transformation of the sinner by God's grace, accomplished through Baptism. It means being made right with God and declared righteous because of grace received in baptism, which cleanses sin and unites the believer with Christ. Baptism is the ordinary means by which this grace is received and the sinner’s status changes from estranged to reconciled with God.

Sanctification is the ongoing growth in holiness after that moment, not the initial declaration of righteousness. Reconciliation refers to restoring the relationship with God after sin, a broader idea than the moment of being made right. Redemption speaks to being freed from sin’s power, a overarching salvific work, with baptism contributing to that redemption but not naming the initial transformation itself.