Romans chapter 4
Introduction
In the previous chapters, Paul demonstrated that God’s righteousness is available through Faith in Jesus Christ and not through works of the Law. In Chapter 4, he continues with this theme by using the example of Abraham, the father of Faith, to show that Justification by faith is not a new concept. Faith has always been at the heart of a relationship with God, and Abraham’s life proves this. Paul reminds the Jews that even their ancestor Abraham was justified not by works, but by his faith.
Part One: Summary of the Text
1. Abraham Justified by Faith, Not by Works (Romans 4:1-8)
Paul begins by asking a question: if Abraham had been justified by works, he would have reason to boast, but this was not the case. Quoting Genesis 15:6, Paul reminds his readers, « Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. » This faith, not works, is what justifies Abraham before God. Paul reinforces this idea with Psalm 32, where David celebrates the blessing of those whose sins are forgiven by God’s Grace alone.
2. Justification Before Circumcision (4:9-12)
Paul then addresses the topic of Circumcision, which for Jews was a sign of the covenant with God. However, he points out that Abraham was justified before he was circumcised. Circumcision, therefore, is a sign of the righteousness that comes through faith, but it is not the cause of that righteousness. Thus, Abraham becomes the father of all who believe, whether circumcised or not.
3. The Promise Made to Abraham (4:13-17)
Paul explains that the promise made to Abraham and his descendants was not given through the Law, but through the righteousness of faith. The Law brings wrath because it reveals Sin, whereas the promise is based on faith and God’s Grace. Abraham is therefore the father of all who believe, fulfilling God’s promise to make him the father of many nations.
4. Abraham’s Faith in God’s Promise (4:18-25)
Paul describes the strength of Abraham’s faith, who, despite his old age and the physical impossibility of having children with Sarah, trusted God to fulfill His promise. This faith was credited to him as righteousness. Similarly, those who believe in the resurrection of Jesus are justified by their faith. Jesus was « delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. »
Part Two: Doctrinal Development
In this chapter, Paul develops key doctrinal themes, linking Abraham’s faith to Christian faith.
Justification by Faith Alone
Abraham’s example shows that justification comes by faith and not by works or the Law. Abraham was declared righteous before circumcision, which has deep significance: righteousness is a gift from God, received through faith. This idea echoes Jesus’ teaching that « whoever believes in him shall have eternal life » (John 3:16).
The Inclusivity of God’s Promise
By emphasizing that Abraham is the father of all believers, Paul shows that God’s promise extends beyond Israel to include all who have faith, whether Jew or Gentile. This fulfillment of the promise through Christ is also mentioned in Ephesians 2:11-22, where Paul explains that Christ has broken down the dividing wall between Jews and Gentiles.
Faith in Christ’s Resurrection
Paul connects Abraham’s faith with Christian faith by stressing the importance of belief in Christ’s resurrection. Just as Abraham believed that God could do the impossible, Christians believe that Jesus, who died for our sins, was raised for our justification. This faith in the resurrection is central to Christian doctrine, as Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:17.
Key Verse
Romans 4:3: « For what does the Scripture say ? Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. »
This verse is foundational because it shows that justification by faith is rooted in the Old Testament, long before the Mosaic Law. Paul emphasizes here that it is faith that justifies: a central theme for understanding the righteousness of God accessible by faith alone.
Explanation of Difficult Terms
- Justification: The act by which God declares a person righteous before Him, based on faith in Jesus Christ.
- Circumcision: A religious rite for Jews, symbolizing the covenant with God, but which does not bring justification.
- Promise: Refers to the promises God made to Abraham, including a numerous offspring and inheritance, symbolizing the divine covenant.
Reflections for a Christian’s Path of Sanctification
- Believing Without Seeing: Like Abraham, Christians are called to trust God even when they cannot see the outcome. True faith rests on God’s faithfulness.
- Recognizing Grace in Justification: God’s righteousness is a free gift received through faith. This recognition should lead Christians to live in humility and gratitude.
- Persevering in Faith: Just as Abraham persevered despite difficult circumstances, Christians are called to stand firm in their faith, knowing that God is faithful to fulfill His promises.
Some questions for a meditation
- The Faith of Abraham ?