Justification according to Paul's Thessalonian Correspondence

Admittedly, Paul does not use the special vocabulary of justification in his Thessalonian epistles, but here he views the Christian life in the light of the coming judgment and calls on his converts to persevere and grow in faith and love to that end. This apocalyptic perspective provides a focus around which we can organize fragmentary references to the future of justification in his other epistles (Rom 2:13, 8:33–34; 1 Cor 4:3–5; Gal 2:17, 5:4–6). What Paul teaches in this connection highlights the "work of faith," alongside Christ's righteousness imputed to faith, as a secondary and derivative, but necessary part of the basis (ground) for a favorable verdict on the last day.