Introduction: In the book of Romans, chapter 4, the Apostle Paul presents a strong argument for faith as the key to righteousness. He used Abraham’s life story as an example, that it is not through the law, but through faith, that we are justified before God. This chapter challenges us to think about our own understanding and beliefs and consider what is the true basis of our right standing with God, not of work lest any man boast, of faith alone. Paul encourages believers to follow Abraham’s example, showing that faith outshines the law and is accessible to all, Jew and Gentile alike.
I. Abraham’s Justification by Faith (Romans 4:1-8)
Paul begins by asking the question about Abraham and what he gained according to the flesh. He asserts that Abraham was justified by faith, not by works, so that the basis of his righteousness was the trust he placed in God, not his adherence to the law. This is evidenced in Genesis 15:6, where it is written that Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness. Similarly, Galatians 3:6 backs up the claim, that those who have faith are the true sons of Abraham. And in Psalm 32:1-2, the psalmist writes, the blessedness of the man to whom God counts righteousness apart from works, which Paul quotes to show the consistent message of faith across Scripture.
II. The Promise Realized Through Faith (Romans 4:9-17)
Paul continues by writing about the timing of Abraham’s righteousness, which was credited to him before circumcision. This makes him the father of all who believe, regardless of circumcision. In Galatians 3:7-9, the faith of the Gentiles is also acknowledged, showing that they are blessed along with Abraham, the man of faith. Genesis 17:10 is referred to, showing that circumcision was a seal of the righteousness by faith. Paul makes the point in these verses, that the promise to Abraham and his offspring was through faith, so it may rest on grace. Hebrews 11:8-10 recounts Abraham’s faith in God’s promises, connecting with the idea that faith, not the law, is the foundation of our inheritance.
III. Abraham’s Faith Offset his Human Doubt (Romans 4:18-22)
Abraham’s unwavering faith is highlighted as he hoped against hope. He did not weaken in faith when he thought of his old age or that Sarah was too old to have a child, as recorded in Genesis 17:17-19. He was fully convinced that what God had promised, He was also able to perform. These verses echo what the Bible tells us in Hebrews 11:11-12, which talks about the faith of Sarah and Abraham in having a child in their old age, showing us that their faith was counted to them as righteousness.
IV. The Application of Abraham’s Faith to Believers (Romans 4:23-25)
Paul ends the chapter by telling about Abraham’s faith, he writes that the words “it was counted to him” were not written for Abraham’s sake alone but for us also. In James 2:23, this idea is spoken of too, showing that the scripture was fulfilled when it said, Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness, making him a friend of God. Finally, Paul emphasizes that Jesus was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification, aligning with the verses in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, where the Bible tells us that Christ’s death and resurrection are the core of the gospel that brings us salvation to the world through faith.
Conclusion: Romans chapter 4 presents true faith as the cornerstone of righteousness, not just for Abraham, but for all believers. Through Paul’s persuasive words, we learn that righteousness comes not from our works or adherence to the law but through faith in God who justifies the ungodly. Abraham’s example shows us that faith can overcome doubt and that God’s promises are unwavering and accessible to anyone who believes, regardless of their background or living under the law. This message is and inspirational and life changing truth for all who seek to understand the nature of their relationship with God.
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