Romans 4:1-25 · Romans

Abraham's Faith

In Romans 4, Paul discusses the faith of Abraham, emphasizing that he was justified by faith and not by works. This faith was counted to him as righteousness, making him the father of all who believe, both circumcised and uncircumcised.

Summary

This passage from Romans 4:1-25 is part of Paul's letter to the Romans, where he discusses the nature of faith and righteousness. The key figures in this passage are Abraham, David, God, Sara, and Jesus. Paul begins by questioning what Abraham, the forefather of the Jewish people, discovered about being justified by faith rather than works (4:1-2). He cites scripture, emphasizing that Abraham's belief in God was credited to him as righteousness, not his deeds (4:3).

Paul explains that righteousness comes through faith, not through works, as demonstrated by Abraham. He notes that if Abraham were justified by works, he would have something to boast about, but not before God (4:2). Paul then mentions David, who spoke of the blessedness of those whose sins are forgiven and not counted against them (4:6-8). He clarifies that this blessedness is available to both the circumcised and uncircumcised, as Abraham was considered righteous before he was circumcised (4:9-11). This establishes Abraham as the father of all who believe, regardless of their adherence to the law (4:11-12). Paul further explains that the promise to Abraham and his descendants came through the righteousness of faith, not the law (4:13-14).

The passage concludes by affirming that faith is the key to receiving God's promise, ensuring it is accessible to all who share Abraham's faith (4:16). Paul highlights Abraham's unwavering belief in God's promise, despite his old age and Sara's barrenness, which was credited to him as righteousness (4:18-22). This account was not only for Abraham's sake but also for all who believe in God, who raised Jesus from the dead (4:23-24). The passage ends with the statement that Jesus was delivered for humanity's offenses and raised for their justification (4:25).

Chiastic structure

ⓘ
A

Romans 4:3

“Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.”

B

Romans 4:16

“Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed;”

A'

Romans 4:24

“But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;”

A and A' both emphasize the reckoning of righteousness through faith, not works, and the inclusion of all who believe, whether circumcised or not.

Interpretation and theological stakes

The primary conclusion in Romans 4:1-25 is that righteousness comes through faith, not works. Paul argues that Abraham's belief in God was counted as righteousness because it was based on faith, not adherence to the law or any works he performed (4:3). This principle applies universally, suggesting that righteousness is a matter of faith available to all, not limited by religious rituals like circumcision or the observance of the law (4:11-12). Paul emphasizes that Abraham's unwavering faith, even when circumstances seemed hopeless, set a precedent for how God credits righteousness to those who believe (4:18-22).

The Reformed Protestant interpretation argues that this passage establishes justification by faith alone. Abraham's faith is the central example, illustrating that it was his belief, not his actions, that God credited as righteousness (4:3, 4:5). This reading highlights the idea that faith, apart from works, is the means by which one is justified before God. Key verses supporting this interpretation suggest that faith alone ensures participation in God's promise, making it accessible to all who share in Abraham's faith (4:16). The emphasis is on grace and faith as the basis for righteousness, not adherence to the law.

On the other hand, Rabbinic Judaism sees Abraham's faith as an example of obedience within the framework of God's commands. While acknowledging Abraham's belief was counted as righteousness, this perspective emphasizes that his faith was expressed through obedience to God's instructions. The act of circumcision, a command Abraham followed, is viewed as an integral part of his faith journey (4:11). This reading interprets the law as crucial to righteousness, with Abraham's faith being emblematic of a faithful life lived in accordance with divine commands.

Considering both interpretations, one can argue that Romans 4:1-25 presents a complex view of faith and law. The passage underscores that righteousness is fundamentally tied to faith, but it does not entirely dismiss the role of obedience. Abraham's faith was profound because it manifested in trust and action, setting a standard for believers. The passage suggests that true righteousness involves a faith that is not passive but actively engages with God's promises, transcending legalistic boundaries and embracing a deeper trust in God's plan, as evidenced in the resurrection of Jesus (4:24-25).

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