July 27, 2026

Imputation and the Doctrine of Justification

Speaker: J.V. Fesko Series: The Gospel Grammar Podcast Scripture: Romans 5:12–21

On this episode Dr. John Fesko sits down with Nick Batzig and DB Cummings to discuss his book, Death in Adam, Life in Christ. Dr. Fesko touches on the profound intersection of the doctrines of original sin, imputation, and justification by faith alone. He also delves into historical developments, biblical foundations, and confessional insights that shape our understanding of salvation.

Dr. Fesko is a minister in the Orthodox Presbyterian Church and Harriett Barbour Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Reformed Theological Seminary, Jackson, Mississippi. Dr. Fesko’s publications include, Reforming Apologetics, Romans: Lectio Continua, The Spirit of the AgeThe Trinity and the Covenant of RedemptionThe Covenant of RedemptionThe Theology of the Westminster StandardsSongs of a Suffering King, and Beyond Calvin: Union with Christ and Justification in Early Modern Reformed Theology, among many others. 

Key Content

  • Intro to Covenant Theology and Justification
  • The Doctrine of Imputation and Original Sin
  • Historical Perspective: Augustine and Anselm
  • The Ontological and Forensic Distinction
  • The Reformation's Impact on the Doctrine of Justification
  • Romans 5: The Adam/Christ Parallel
  • Understanding Justification and Righteousness
  • The Active and Passive Obedience of Jesus 
  • The Importance of Imputation in Salvation
  • Pastoral Comfort in Justification

Referenced Resources

J.V. Fesko Death in Adam, Life in Christ 

Adam and the Covenant of Works 

Last Things First: Unlocking Genesis 1–3 with the Christ of Eschatology

John Murray The Imputation of Adam's Sin

Redemption Accomplished and Applied