We are only reconciled or restored to right standing through the work of Christ, as by faith we identify ourselves with Him. This faith is based on a thorough turning from self-reliance and dead works to a complete trust in the work of another. We only have faith toward God to accept Christ’s work for us, to the extent that we have repented of dead works. Instead of working to merit righteousness, we agree with God that this is impossible. Then we accept His alternative which is to credit us with the righteousness of Christ. We see this kind of faith exemplified in Abraham, the father of the faithful.  

For what saith the Scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness (Romans 4:3).  

All through the Old Testament, God prepared His people for His provision of Christ for justification. Each time men sinned, they were to bring a sacrifice; usually a bull, a sheep or lamb, or a goat. The blood of the animal was shed and sin was covered. But since sin was only covered, not taken away, these sacrifices were often repeated and did not grant complete access into God’s presence. Not until Christ became the perfect Lamb of God did He remove sin forever and make possible not only access but union with God by faith. Nevertheless, the same principle has held true throughout God’s dealing with man: sin requires the shedding of blood, either the death of the sinner himself or of a substitute.  

And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission (Hebrews 9:22).