Imagine being told you could inherit a fortune simply by believing in the promise of a mysterious benefactor. In Romans 4, we explore how Abraham's faith, rather than his actions, made him a key player in God's grand narrative.
The Reading: Romans 4
World English Bible1 What then will we say that Abraham, our forefather, has found according to the flesh?
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2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not toward God.
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3 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.”
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4 Now to him who works, the reward is not counted as grace, but as something owed.
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5 But to him who doesn’t work, but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.
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6 Even as David also pronounces blessing on the man to whom God counts righteousness apart from works,
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7 “Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
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8 Blessed is the man whom the Lord will by no means charge with sin.”
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9 Is this blessing then pronounced on the circumcised, or on the uncircumcised also? For we say that faith was accounted to Abraham for righteousness.
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10 How then was it counted? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.
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11 He received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while he was in uncircumcision, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they might be in uncircumcision, that righteousness might also be accounted to them.
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12 He is the father of circumcision to those who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had in uncircumcision.
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13 For the promise to Abraham and to his offspring that he should be heir of the world wasn’t through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.
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14 For if those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made void, and the promise is made of no effect.
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15 For the law produces wrath, for where there is no law, neither is there disobedience.
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16 For this cause it is of faith, that it may be according to grace, to the end that the promise may be sure to all the offspring, not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all.
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17 As it is written, “I have made you a father of many nations.” This is in the presence of him whom he believed: God, who gives life to the dead, and calls the things that are not, as though they were.
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18 Besides hope, Abraham in hope believed, to the end that he might become a father of many nations, according to that which had been spoken, “So will your offspring be.”
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19 Without being weakened in faith, he didn’t consider his own body, already having been worn out, (he being about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb.
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20 Yet, looking to the promise of God, he didn’t waver through unbelief, but grew strong through faith, giving glory to God,
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21 and being fully assured that what he had promised, he was also able to perform.
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22 Therefore it also was “credited to him for righteousness.”
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23 Now it was not written that it was accounted to him for his sake alone,
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24 but for our sake also, to whom it will be accounted, who believe in him who raised Jesus, our Lord, from the dead,
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25 who was delivered up for our trespasses, and was raised for our justification.
What This Chapter Is Really Saying
In Romans 4, the Apostle Paul presents a compelling argument about the nature of faith and righteousness through the story of Abraham. He kicks things off by asking what Abraham found in his journey of faith. If Abraham could be justified by his actions alone, then he might have grounds to boast, but that's not how it works with God.
Righteousness by Faith
Paul quotes Scripture, showing that Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness. This means it's not about what we do that earns us favor with God, but rather our faith in Him. He points out that if someone works hard, they deserve their wages, but the beauty of faith lies in grace - it's a gift, not a paycheck.
The Role of Circumcision
Paul tackles the topic of circumcision, a hot-button issue for the early church. Was Abraham righteous before or after this ritual? Spoiler: It was before! This emphasizes that faith, not rituals, is what brings us into a relationship with God. Abraham becomes the father of all believers, regardless of their background, proving that God's promise extends to everyone.
The Promise of Righteousness
The promise made to Abraham wasn't based on the law but on faith. If it depended on rules, it would be meaningless. Paul explains that faith is the pathway to grace, making God's promises secure for all, not just those who follow the law.
Hope Against Hope
Abraham's faith was remarkable, especially considering he was nearly a hundred years old and Sarah's womb was lifeless. Despite these daunting circumstances, he didn't waver but grew stronger in faith, believing that God could bring life from death. This unwavering belief was credited to him as righteousness, reinforcing the message that faith is powerful and transformative.
Ultimately, Paul reminds readers that this story isn't just about Abraham. It's about us too, reinforcing that believing in God's ability to fulfill His promises - even raising Jesus from the dead - is what counts.
Why It Matters
Faith Over Works
Romans 4 teaches us that our standing with God isn't a matter of ticking boxes but is based on faith. In a world that often values achievements, this chapter encourages us to shift our focus from what we do to what we believe.
Inclusion in God's Family
Abraham's story illustrates how faith opens the doors of God's family to everyone - irrespective of cultural or religious background. This is a powerful reminder that we all have a place in God's plan, and it's our faith that unites us.
The Power of Hope
Abraham's unwavering belief in God's promises amid impossibility serves as a beautiful model for our own lives. Even when circumstances look bleak, holding onto faith can lead to incredible outcomes.
As you reflect on the themes of faith and righteousness, consider using the Sancta app to find a church near you where you can connect with others on a similar journey of faith.
Embracing Grace
Lastly, embrace the grace offered through faith. It's a gift meant for everyone, reminding us that we don't have to earn God's love; we simply need to accept it.
Coming Up Next: Romans 5
In the next part of our journey through Romans, we'll explore how faith brings us peace with God and the transformative power of grace. Don't miss it!