What connections exist between Romans 4:23 and Genesis 15:6 regarding faith? Setting the Stage Romans 4:23: “Now the words ‘it was credited to him’ were written not only for Abraham,” Linking Back to the First Mention Genesis 15:6: “Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Faith Credited as Righteousness—Then and Now • Same wording, same action: “credited” (λόγιζομαι, logizomai) establishes a legal, accounting term—God places righteousness on Abraham’s account purely through belief. • Paul anchors his argument by lifting Genesis 15:6 straight into Romans 4, showing that the method of justification has never changed. • The faith involved is not generic optimism; it is trust in God’s specific promise—first of innumerable offspring (Genesis 15:5), ultimately fulfilled in Christ (Galatians 3:16). Why Romans 4:23 Matters • “Were written not only for Abraham” declares that Genesis 15:6 was preserved intentionally for later generations. • The Spirit inspired Moses to record the event, and Paul to interpret it, so believers would see that God’s promise of crediting righteousness applies to them as well (Romans 4:24). Supporting Passages that Reinforce the Connection • Romans 4:3 – Paul initially quotes Genesis 15:6, then expounds it through the chapter. • Romans 4:22 – repeats “it was credited to him as righteousness,” leading straight into verse 23. • Galatians 3:6–9 – Paul cites the same verse to argue that “those of faith are sons of Abraham.” • James 2:23 – James also quotes Genesis 15:6, highlighting that genuine faith produces obedient works, yet still affirms the crediting of righteousness. • Hebrews 11:8–12 – underscores Abraham’s enduring faith, accenting that righteousness has always been accessed by belief rather than law. Take-Home Truths • Scripture’s unity: a single sentence in Genesis explains the core of Romans. • God’s bookkeeping never shifts—whether patriarch or modern believer, justification rests on faith alone. • The record of Abraham’s faith is God’s invitation to everyone who “believe[s] in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead” (Romans 4:24). |
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