Romans 4:4

Now the wages of the worker are not credited as a gift, but as an obligation.

Study Bible

Now
The word "Now" serves as a transitional term, connecting the previous arguments made by Paul to the point he is about to make. It indicates a logical progression in his discourse. In the context of Romans, Paul is building on his discussion of faith and works, emphasizing the distinction between earning and receiving.

the wages
"Wages" in Greek is "ὀψώνιον" (opsōnion), which refers to compensation or payment for work done. In the cultural and historical context of the Roman Empire, wages were a common part of daily life, especially for soldiers and laborers. Paul uses this term to illustrate the concept of earning something through effort, contrasting it with the idea of grace.

of the worker
The "worker" (Greek: "ἐργαζομένου," ergazomenou) refers to someone who performs labor or tasks. In the biblical context, this term can be understood as anyone who attempts to earn righteousness through their own efforts or works. Paul is addressing the mindset that righteousness can be achieved through human endeavor, a common belief among both Jews and Gentiles of his time.

are not credited
"Credited" (Greek: "λογίζεται," logizetai) is an accounting term meaning to reckon or consider. In the context of Romans, it refers to how God accounts righteousness to individuals. Paul is emphasizing that righteousness is not something that can be accounted to someone as a result of their works, but rather through faith.

as a gift
The term "gift" (Greek: "χάρις," charis) is central to Paul's theology. It signifies something given freely, without expectation of repayment. In the context of salvation, it underscores the concept of grace—God's unmerited favor. Paul contrasts this with the idea of earning, highlighting that salvation is a divine gift, not a human achievement.

but as an obligation
"Obligation" (Greek: "ὀφείλημα," opheilēma) refers to a debt or something owed. In the cultural context of Paul's audience, obligations were legal and binding. By using this term, Paul illustrates that if righteousness were based on works, it would be something God owes us, rather than a gift of grace. This reinforces the idea that salvation is not transactional but relational, rooted in faith and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological writings. Romans is one of his epistles, written to the believers in Rome.

2. The Church in Rome
The recipients of the letter, the Roman Christians were a diverse group of Jewish and Gentile believers living in the capital of the Roman Empire.

3. Abraham
Although not directly mentioned in Romans 4:4, Abraham is a central figure in the surrounding context of Romans 4. Paul uses Abraham as an example of faith and righteousness apart from works.

Teaching Points

Understanding Justification
Romans 4:4 states, "Now to the one who works, his wages are not credited as a gift, but as an obligation." This highlights the distinction between earning wages through works and receiving righteousness as a gift through faith. Justification is not something we earn; it is a gift from God.

The Nature of Grace
The Greek word for "gift" (charis) underscores the unmerited favor of God. Believers are called to live in the freedom of grace, recognizing that their standing before God is not based on their own efforts.

Faith and Works
While works are not the basis of our justification, they are the evidence of a living faith. Believers are encouraged to pursue good works as a response to the grace they have received, not as a means to earn God's favor.

Humility in Salvation
Understanding that salvation is a gift should lead to humility. Believers are reminded that they cannot boast in their own righteousness but should boast in the Lord who justifies the ungodly.

Living in Gratitude
The realization of grace should lead to a life of gratitude and worship. Believers are encouraged to live in a way that reflects their thankfulness for the gift of salvation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Romans 4:4 challenge the common human tendency to earn favor with God through works?

2. In what ways does the example of Abraham in Romans 4 help us understand the concept of faith and righteousness?

3. How can Ephesians 2:8-9 deepen our understanding of the relationship between faith, grace, and works?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure that our good works are a response to God's grace rather than an attempt to earn His favor?

5. How does the understanding of salvation as a gift influence our interactions with others, especially those who may not yet know Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15:6
This verse is foundational to understanding Romans 4, as it describes Abraham's faith being credited to him as righteousness. Paul uses this Old Testament reference to illustrate justification by faith.

Ephesians 2:8-9
These verses echo the theme of grace and faith, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of works, so that no one can boast.

James 2:14-26
While James discusses the evidence of faith through works, it complements Paul's teaching by showing that genuine faith results in action, though it is not the basis of justification.