I AM JUSTIFIED BY FAITH
FAITH IN CHRIST (who loves me and gave himself for me) fulfills the Law completely through Christ's perfect obedience (as Head) and my participation as a member of His Body, even if individually I fall short. (JUSTIFIED)
STILL A SINNER
Despite this fulfillment (already, but not yet), ALL Christians still sin, as the effects of original sin and personal failings persist until death. The Holy Spirit, poured out through that same FAITH, empowers me with sanctifying grace to grow in holiness and love, enabling a progressive fulfillment of the Law's demands.
PROGRESS, PERSEVERANCE, & REPENTANCE
The Spirit's grace ensures progress. This help is not automatic but requires my cooperation—prayer, sacraments, and asceticism—to cultivate virtues and shun vices. The key is perseverance: Faith does not excuse sin but orients us toward repentance and growth.
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