How does Romans 4:22 connect with Genesis 15:6 regarding faith and righteousness? Setting the Stage: Two Key Verses • Genesis 15:6: “Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” • Romans 4:22: “This is why ‘it was credited to him as righteousness.’” Same Phrase, Same Promise • Paul quotes Genesis 15:6 verbatim in Romans 4:22. • Both verses use the covenant language of “credited” (Greek: logizomai) to show a legal bookkeeping term—God counts faith as righteousness. • The connection anchors the New Testament doctrine of justification directly in the very first book of Scripture. What “Credited as Righteousness” Really Means • Not earned, gifted—God transfers righteousness to the believer’s account. • Immediate and complete—no probationary period. • Rooted in faith alone, not performance. The Continuity of Faith from Abraham to Us • Romans 4:23-24: “The words ‘it was credited to him’ were written not only for Abraham, but also for us who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.” • Galatians 3:6-9 echoes the same Genesis text, calling believers “sons of Abraham.” • James 2:23 combines Genesis 15:6 with Abraham’s later obedience to show that genuine faith produces works, but the works never replace faith as the basis of righteousness. • Hebrews 11:8-19 lists Abraham as the prototype of faith that looks beyond visible circumstances to God’s promise. Why Paul Highlights Genesis in Romans 4 • To prove justification precedes circumcision (Romans 4:9-12). • To nullify boasting—if Abraham was counted righteous before the Law, then no one can claim it comes by keeping the Law (Romans 4:13-15). • To show God’s consistent method: grace through faith from the beginning (Romans 4:16-17). Faith’s Object: The God Who Gives Life • Abraham believed God could create descendants from a barren womb (Romans 4:19). • We believe God raised Jesus from a sealed tomb (Romans 4:24-25). • Same God, same resurrection power, same righteousness credited. Implications for Everyday Living • Rest—our standing is secure because righteousness is credited, not earned. • Confidence—God’s promises are as certain now as when spoken to Abraham. • Humility—boasting is ruled out; salvation is by grace alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Obedience—faith that receives righteousness also responds in trust-filled action, just as Abraham left Ur, built altars, and offered Isaac. Summary Snapshot Genesis 15:6 establishes the pattern; Romans 4:22 confirms its continuing authority. Both declare that righteousness is credited to those who believe God’s promise, anchoring our assurance in the unchanging faithfulness of God. |
    |