How does Romans 4:3 illustrate the principle of faith over works? Setting the Context Paul writes Romans 4 to prove that justification has always been by faith, not by human effort. He holds up Abraham—the father of Israel—as the prime case study, showing that even Abraham’s standing with God rested on believing, not on doing. Scripture Focus: Romans 4:3 “For what does the Scripture say? ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’” Key Observations • “Believed” precedes any mention of Abraham’s obedience or circumcision (Genesis 15:6 occurs before Genesis 17). • “Credited” (Greek: logizomai) is an accounting term—God transferred righteousness to Abraham’s “account” purely on the basis of trust. • Paul asks, “What does the Scripture say?” anchoring his argument in God’s inerrant Word, not human reasoning. • The verse cites Genesis 15:6 verbatim, underscoring continuity between Old and New Covenants. How Romans 4:3 Elevates Faith Over Works • The only stated action by Abraham is believing, not working. • Righteousness is treated as a gift, not wages earned (compare Romans 4:4-5). • God’s initiative dominates—He credits; Abraham receives. • This pattern demolishes any claim that ritual (circumcision) or moral achievement could establish right standing before God. Supporting Passages • Genesis 15:6 — original record of Abraham’s faith. • Galatians 3:6-9 — Paul repeats the same citation to prove Gentiles share Abraham’s blessing through faith. • Ephesians 2:8-9 — “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith… not by works, so that no one may boast.” • Hebrews 11:6 — “Without faith it is impossible to please God.” • James 2:23 — reaffirms Genesis 15:6, showing that Abraham’s later works verified, but did not earn, the righteousness already credited. Take-Home Truths • God’s righteous verdict is received, never achieved. • Faith unites the believer to God’s promise, securing a status works can never purchase. • Abraham’s story sets the template: trust God’s Word, and He graciously counts you righteous. |
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