1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?
2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath [whereof] to glory; but not before God.
3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.
4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt.
5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.
6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
7 [Saying], Blessed [are] they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.
8 Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.
9 [Cometh] this blessedness then upon the circumcision [only], or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.
10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.
11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which [he had yet] being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:
12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which [he had] being [yet] uncircumcised.
13 For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, [was] not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.
14 For if they which are of the law [be] heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect:
15 Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, [there is] no transgression.
16 Therefore [it is] of faith, that [it might be] by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; 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,
17 (As it is written, I have made thee a father of many nations,) before him whom he believed, [even] God, who quickeneth the dead, and calleth those things which be not as though they were.
18 Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations; according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.
19 And being not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now dead, when he was about an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara’s womb:
20 He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;
21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.
22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness.
23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;
24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;
25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.
Overview of Romans Chapter 4
Romans Chapter 4 is a pivotal text in the New Testament that emphasizes the doctrine of justification by faith. The Apostle Paul uses the examples of Abraham and David to illustrate how righteousness is credited to those who believe, rather than those who rely on works of the law. This chapter serves as a theological foundation for understanding salvation and grace in the Christian faith.
Key Themes
- Justification by Faith: The chapter emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith, not through adherence to the law.
- Abraham as a Model of Faith: Abraham is presented as the father of faith, demonstrating that belief in God’s promises leads to righteousness.
- The Role of Grace: Paul highlights that grace is a gift from God, not something earned by human effort.
- Inclusivity of Salvation: The chapter argues that both Jews and Gentiles can be justified through faith, breaking down barriers between different groups.
Detailed Analysis
1. Justification and the Example of Abraham (Verses 1-5)
Paul begins by posing a rhetorical question regarding Abraham’s status. He argues that if Abraham was justified by works, he would have something to boast about. However, Paul asserts that Abraham’s faith, not his works, was credited to him as righteousness. This sets the tone for the entire chapter, establishing the principle that faith is the means through which believers are justified.
2. The Nature of Faith (Verses 6-8)
In these verses, Paul cites David to reinforce his argument. He points out that David spoke of the blessedness of those whose sins are forgiven and whose transgressions are covered. This illustrates that righteousness is not merely about following the law but involves a relational aspect with God, where forgiveness and grace play crucial roles.
3. Circumcision and the Promise (Verses 9-12)
Paul addresses the issue of circumcision, arguing that Abraham was justified before he was circumcised. This emphasizes that the promise of righteousness through faith is available to all, regardless of their adherence to Jewish law. Paul asserts that Abraham is the father of all who believe, both circumcised and uncircumcised, thus broadening the scope of God’s covenant.
4. The Promise and Faith (Verses 13-17)
Paul discusses the promise made to Abraham and his descendants, emphasizing that it is not based on the law but on the righteousness that comes through faith. He argues that the law brings wrath, while faith brings hope. The promise is guaranteed to all who believe, showcasing God’s faithfulness and the universality of His grace.
5. Abraham’s Faith and God’s Power (Verses 18-22)
In these verses, Paul highlights Abraham’s unwavering faith in God’s promises, even when faced with seemingly impossible circumstances. Abraham believed that God could give life to the dead and call into existence things that do not exist. This unwavering faith is credited to him as righteousness, serving as an example for all believers.
6. The Relevance of Abraham’s Faith for Believers (Verses 23-25)
Paul concludes the chapter by affirming that the words “it was credited to him” were not written for Abraham alone but also for those who believe in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and raised to life for our justification. This underscores the centrality of Christ in the doctrine of justification by faith.
Theological Implications
- Faith Over Works: The chapter solidifies the belief that faith is the essential component for justification, challenging legalistic interpretations of salvation.
- Universal Access to Salvation: By using Abraham as an example, Paul illustrates that salvation through faith is available to all, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.
- God’s Faithfulness: The text emphasizes that God’s promises are fulfilled through faith, highlighting His reliability and grace.
- Role of Jesus Christ: The chapter points to the significance of Christ’s death and resurrection as the foundation for believers’ justification.
Conclusion
Romans Chapter 4 is a critical exposition of the doctrine of justification by faith, using Abraham and David as exemplars of faithfulness to God. It challenges believers to understand their relationship with God as one rooted in faith rather than works, emphasizing the grace that is available to all who believe in Jesus Christ.
