How does Romans 4:6 define the concept of righteousness apart from works? The Verse Under Study “Just as David also speaks of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works.” (Romans 4:6) Key Terms Unpacked • credits – a bookkeeping term meaning “to place to one’s account,” showing God actively assigns righteousness to the believer. • righteousness – perfect moral standing before God, the full conformity to His law and character. • apart from works – entirely separated from any human effort or merit; no ritual, law-keeping, or good deed contributes. Core Truths Drawn from Romans 4:6 • Righteousness is a gift, not a wage. God “credits” it; we do not earn it. • The source is God alone; the recipient simply receives. • Works are excluded—completely, not partially. • The result is “blessedness,” a settled joy that flows from being right with God. Supporting Scriptures • Genesis 15:6 – “Abram believed the LORD, and He credited it to him as righteousness.” • Psalm 32:1-2 (quoted in vv. 7-8) – sins covered, sin not counted. • Romans 3:28 – “a man is justified by faith apart from works of the law.” • Galatians 2:16 – “by works of the law no one will be justified.” • Ephesians 2:8-9 – salvation “not of works, so that no one may boast.” • Philippians 3:9 – “not having my own righteousness... but that which is through faith in Christ.” • Titus 3:5 – “He saved us, not by works of righteousness that we had done.” • 2 Corinthians 5:21 – Christ made sin for us so we might “become the righteousness of God in Him.” Illustrated Through Abraham and David • Abraham (Romans 4:1-3): believed God before circumcision, proving righteousness predates any ritual. • David (Romans 4:6-8): after grievous sin, he rejoices that God forgives and does not count his iniquity—righteousness credited even when works have failed. Implications for Us Today • Assurance: our standing rests on God’s credit, not our performance. • Humility: boasting is excluded; all glory goes to God. • Freedom: we serve out of gratitude, not to gain favor. • Invitation: anyone, regardless of past deeds, can receive righteousness by faith in Christ alone. |
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