10. Romans 4:1-8 - Abraham’s Faith and Justification

September 25th, 2024
by Jongseung Park

In this passage, Paul continues to build on the theme of justification by faith by using Abraham, the forefather of the Jewish people, as an example. He argues that Abraham was not justified by works, but by faith, and that this principle of faith-based righteousness applies to all people. Paul also draws on David’s words to underscore the blessedness of receiving forgiveness and righteousness apart from works.

1. SCRIPTURE

1 What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? 2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” 4 Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, 24 6 just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works: 7 “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; 8 blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”

2. OBSERVATIONS :

Genesis 15:6 states, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness”. Abraham’s faith, rather than his actions, is what made him righteous in God’s eyes; he had no reason to boast. In the same way, no one can boast about their own righteousness before God(v. 1-3).

Wages and Gift have to be distinguished. When someone works, their wages are owed to them—they’re not a gift but an obligation. In contrast, righteousness is not something we can earn; it is a gift from God. Those who trust in God rather than rely on their own efforts receive righteousness by faith, even though they are "ungodly" (v. 4-5).
Psalm 32:1-2, where David speaks of the blessedness of forgiveness. He celebrates the fact that God forgives sins and does not count them against us. This is another affirmation that righteousness comes apart from works (v. 6-8). Just as David experienced the joy of being forgiven, all who believe in God’s promise can experience the same blessedness.

Ultimately, Justification has always been through faith, even for someone as central to Jewish identity as Abraham. His righteousness was "credited" to him because he trusted God, not because of anything he did. This sets that all believers, Jew and Gentile alike, are justified by faith and not by following the law.

3. APPLICATION:

Abraham was considered righteous because he believed in God’s promise. In the same way, I need to fully trust in God’s promises, especially His promise of salvation through Christ. Sometimes, it’s easy to think that if I do enough good things or follow enough rules, I’ll be more accepted by God. But this passage reminds me that I need to rely completely on God’s grace, not my own efforts.

David’s words about the joy of being forgiven really resonate with me. Knowing that my sins are forgiven and won’t be held against me brings me so much joy and peace. This truth changes how I see myself and my relationship with God. I don’t have to carry the weight of guilt or shame because, through Christ, my sins are covered, and I am made new.

Since righteousness is a gift I receive by grace, not by what I do, I have no reason to boast. This should inspire a deep sense of humility. I didn’t earn my standing before God; it was given to me freely. I need to live with humility, always remembering that God’s grace is the reason I am made righteous. This also encourages me to lead a life of gratitude, continually thanking God for His incredible mercy and grace.

Therefore, I’ll make it a point to remind myself that righteousness is a gift, not something I can earn, by spending time in prayer and reflecting on Scripture. Each day, I’ll thank God for the forgiveness I’ve received through Christ and let that gratitude influence how I see things. Finally, just as God has forgiven me, I want to practice showing that same grace and forgiveness to the people around me.

4. PRAYER:

Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the incredible gift of righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. I praise You for Abraham's example, who was justified by faith, not by works. Like him, I want to trust in Your promises, knowing my righteousness comes solely from Your grace.

Lord, forgive me for the times I’ve tried to earn Your favor or relied on my own efforts. Help me let go of pride and self-righteousness and fully trust in the finished work of Jesus. I’m so grateful for the forgiveness You offer and that my sins are not held against me. Fill my heart with joy and peace, knowing I am covered by the blood of Christ.

Humble me, Lord, and remind me daily that my standing before You is a gift. May I live in gratitude for Your mercy and extend that same grace to others. Let my life reflect the joy of being forgiven and the freedom that comes from being justified by faith. Thank You for Your amazing grace, Father.

In Jesus’ name,
Amen.

Posted in Book of Romans