Romans 4 -

Romans 4 is a pivotal chapter in the New Testament, where the Apostle Paul articulates the doctrine of justification by faith, using Abraham as the ultimate example. This chapter dismantles the notion that righteousness comes through works or adherence to the law, emphasizing instead that faith alone is the pathway to a right relationship with God. By exploring Abraham’s story, Paul demonstrates that salvation is a gift of grace, accessible to all—Jew and Gentile alike. This article provides an in-depth analysis of Romans 4, breaking down its key themes, verses, and theological significance to help readers understand its profound message.

Table of Contents

The Context of Romans 4: Paul’s Argument for Faith

Romans 4 builds on the foundation laid in Romans 1–3, where Paul establishes that all humanity is guilty of sin and falls short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23). In Romans 3:21–31, he introduces the concept of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, apart from the law. Romans 4 then serves as a case study, using Old Testament figures—Abraham and David—to prove that justification by faith is not a new concept but one rooted in God’s covenant with His people. Paul’s audience, a mixed group of Jewish and Gentile Christians in Rome, needed clarity on how faith, not works or circumcision, secures salvation.

This chapter addresses a critical question: If righteousness is not earned through works, how was Abraham, the father of the Jewish nation, justified? Paul’s answer is clear: Abraham’s faith, not his deeds, was credited as righteousness, setting a precedent for all believers.

Abraham’s Justification by Faith (Romans 4:1–8)

Abraham’s Faith Credited as Righteousness

Paul begins Romans 4 by asking, “What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter?” (Romans 4:1, NIV). He immediately challenges the Jewish belief that Abraham was justified by his works or adherence to the law. Quoting Genesis 15:6, Paul states, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness” (Romans 4:3). This verse is the cornerstone of the chapter, emphasizing that Abraham’s trust in God’s promise was the basis for his right standing with God.

The term “credited” (Greek: logizomai) uses an accounting metaphor—God counts righteousness to Abraham not as earned wages but as a gift of grace. Paul contrasts this with works: “Wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation” (Romans 4:4). Abraham was justified by grace through faith, not by merit.

David’s Testimony of Forgiveness

To reinforce his argument, Paul cites Psalm 32:1–2, attributed to David: “Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them” (Romans 4:7–8). David’s words echo the same truth: righteousness is not earned but imputed by God to those who trust Him. This blessedness—forgiveness and acceptance by God—extends to all who believe, regardless of their works.

Paul’s use of Abraham and David is strategic. Abraham, the patriarch of Israel, and David, the revered king, were central figures in Jewish theology. By showing that both were justified by faith, Paul bridges the Old Testament with the gospel, proving that salvation by faith is consistent with God’s eternal plan.

Faith Beyond Circumcision (Romans 4:9–12)

Righteousness Before Circumcision

Paul addresses a potential objection: Was Abraham justified because of circumcision, a key Jewish ritual? He answers by examining the timeline of Abraham’s life. Genesis 15:6 records Abraham’s faith being credited as righteousness, while Genesis 17 describes his circumcision years later. Paul concludes, “He received circumcision as a sign, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised” (Romans 4:11). This sequence is crucial: Abraham was declared righteous before circumcision, meaning it was not a prerequisite for justification.

This point was revolutionary for Paul’s audience. Many Jewish Christians believed Gentiles needed circumcision to be fully accepted by God. Paul counters this, showing that Abraham’s faith made him the “father of all who believe but have not been circumcised” (Romans 4:11). Thus, Abraham is not only the physical ancestor of the Jews but the spiritual father of all believers, circumcised or not.

The Universal Scope of Faith

By emphasizing that Abraham’s righteousness preceded circumcision, Paul underscores the universality of salvation. The promise of righteousness is not limited to those under the law (Jews) but extends to all who share Abraham’s faith (Gentiles). This inclusivity aligns with God’s promise in Genesis 17:5: “I have made you a father of many nations.” Abraham’s faith becomes the model for all believers, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.

The Promise Through Faith, Not Law (Romans 4:13–17)

The Promise to Abraham’s Offspring

Paul explains that God’s promise to Abraham—being “heir of the world” (Romans 4:13)—came through faith, not the law. This meant Abraham’s legacy would be global and spiritual, not just tied to Canaan. This promise was given centuries before the Mosaic law, so it cannot depend on law-keeping.

Paul explains, “If those who depend on the law are heirs, faith means nothing and the promise is worthless, because the law brings wrath” (Romans 4:14–15). The law highlights sin and transgression, leading to judgment, not salvation. Instead, the promise is fulfilled “by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring” (Romans 4:16). Grace ensures the promise’s reliability, as it depends on God’s faithfulness, not human effort.

Abraham as Father of Many Nations

God’s declaration in Genesis 17:5—“I have made you a father of many nations”—is fulfilled through faith. Paul describes God as the one who gives life to the dead and calls things into being (Romans 4:17), showing His power to fulfill promises despite impossible circumstances.

Abraham’s Unwavering Faith (Romans 4:18–22)

Hope Against Hope

Paul highlights Abraham’s faith: “Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed” (Romans 4:18). Though nearly 100 and Sarah’s womb was barren, he trusted God’s promise. His faith did not waver, even when confronted with physical impossibility. Instead, “he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God” (Romans 4:20).

This steadfast trust glorified God, demonstrating that true faith acknowledges God’s power and faithfulness. Abraham was “fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised” (Romans 4:21). His confidence rested not in his own abilities but in God’s ability to fulfill His word.

Faith Credited as Righteousness

Paul reiterates that Abraham’s faith was “credited to him as righteousness” (Romans 4:22). This repetition reinforces the central thesis: righteousness comes through faith, not works. Abraham’s example shows that faith involves trusting God’s promises, even when evidence suggests otherwise. This trust is not blind but rooted in God’s character and past faithfulness.

Application for Believers Today (Romans 4:23–25)

The Relevance of Abraham’s Faith

Paul ends by saying Abraham’s faith was credited as righteousness not just for him, but also for us who believe in God who raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 4:23–24). Abraham’s faith in God’s promise of a son parallels the Christian’s faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection for salvation.

Jesus’ Death and Resurrection

ChatGPT said:

The chapter ends with a clear gospel summary: “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification” (Romans 4:25). Jesus’ death paid for sin, and His resurrection proves our justification. This connects Abraham’s faith to ours, showing God keeps His promises—then and now.

Theological Significance of Romans 4

Justification by Faith Alone

Romans 4 is a cornerstone of the doctrine of sola fide (faith alone). Paul’s argument dismantles any notion that salvation can be earned through works, rituals, or law-keeping. Abraham’s justification before circumcision and the law proves that faith has always been the means of righteousness. This truth liberates believers from the burden of performance-based religion, offering assurance that salvation is a gift received through trust in God.

The Universality of Salvation

By establishing Abraham as the father of all who believe, Paul emphasizes the inclusivity of the gospel. Salvation is not confined to one ethnic group or religious system but is available to all who trust in God’s promise, fulfilled in Jesus Christ. This universal scope challenges exclusivity and invites all people to respond in faith.

The Power of God’s Promises

Abraham’s story highlights God’s faithfulness and power to fulfill His promises, even in impossible situations. This encourages believers to trust God in their own lives, knowing that He is “the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not” (Romans 4:17).

Practical Applications of Romans 4

Trusting God in Difficult Circumstances

Abraham’s faith in the face of impossibility inspires believers to trust God despite challenging circumstances. Whether facing personal struggles or doubts, Romans 4 encourages steadfast reliance on God’s promises.

Embracing Grace Over Works

The chapter invites believers to rest in God’s grace, knowing that salvation is not earned but received. This frees Christians from striving to earn God’s favor and fosters gratitude for His unmerited gift.

Unity in Faith

By highlighting Abraham as the father of both Jews and Gentiles, Romans 4 promotes unity among believers. It challenges divisions based on ethnicity, culture, or religious background, uniting all under the banner of faith in Christ.

Conclusion

Romans 4 highlights that righteousness comes by faith, not works, using Abraham as the example. Paul shows salvation is a gift of grace, available to all who believe. By exploring Abraham’s faith, the chapter bridges the Old and New Testaments, revealing God’s consistent plan of redemption. For believers today, Romans 4 is a call to trust God’s faithfulness, embrace His grace, and live in the freedom of justification through faith in Jesus Christ.