How does Romans chapter 4 explain righteousness through faith?

Romans chapter 4 is a profound and pivotal chapter in the New Testament where the Apostle Paul delves deep into the concept of righteousness through faith. This chapter is crucial for understanding the doctrine of justification by faith, a cornerstone of Christian theology. To fully appreciate Paul's argument, it's essential to examine the theological and historical context, the biblical examples he cites, and the implications of his teachings for believers.

In Romans 4, Paul begins by addressing a fundamental question: How can a person be considered righteous before God? He uses the patriarch Abraham as a prime example to illustrate that righteousness is credited not through works or adherence to the law, but through faith. This was a radical idea in Paul's time, especially for his Jewish audience, who placed significant emphasis on the Mosaic Law and circumcision as markers of righteousness.

Paul starts by posing a rhetorical question: "What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter?" (Romans 4:1, NIV). He immediately answers by stating that if Abraham was justified by works, he would have something to boast about—but not before God. Instead, Paul quotes Genesis 15:6: "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness" (Romans 4:3, NIV). This verse is foundational because it shows that Abraham's righteousness was a result of his faith, not his works.

Paul further elaborates on this point by contrasting the concepts of wages and gifts. He explains that when a person works, their wages are not considered a gift but an obligation. However, righteousness is not something that can be earned through works; it is a gift from God. "Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness" (Romans 4:4-5, NIV).

To reinforce his argument, Paul brings in another significant Old Testament figure, King David. He cites Psalm 32:1-2, where David speaks of the blessedness of the person whose sins are forgiven and whose transgressions are covered. "Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them" (Romans 4:7-8, NIV). By referencing David, Paul shows that the principle of righteousness through faith is not a new concept but one that has been acknowledged throughout Israel's history.

Paul then addresses the issue of circumcision, a critical aspect of Jewish identity and religious practice. He asks whether this blessedness of righteousness through faith was only for the circumcised or also for the uncircumcised. He points out that Abraham was declared righteous through faith before he was circumcised. "And he received circumcision as a sign, a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised" (Romans 4:11, NIV). This demonstrates that circumcision was a sign and seal of the righteousness Abraham already had by faith, not the means of obtaining it. Thus, Abraham is the father of all who believe, whether circumcised or not.

Paul continues by discussing the promise given to Abraham and his descendants. He emphasizes that the promise was not through the law but through the righteousness that comes by faith. "It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith" (Romans 4:13, NIV). The law brings wrath because no one can fully adhere to it, but where there is no law, there is no transgression. Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so it may be by grace and guaranteed to all Abraham's offspring.

Paul's argument culminates in a powerful declaration of faith's role in God's plan of salvation. He describes Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promise, despite his and Sarah's old age and apparent inability to have children. "Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, 'So shall your offspring be'" (Romans 4:18, NIV). Abraham did not waver through unbelief but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had the power to do what he had promised. "This is why 'it was credited to him as righteousness.' The words 'it was credited to him' were written not for him alone, but also for us, to whom God will credit righteousness—for us who believe in him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead" (Romans 4:22-24, NIV).

Paul concludes by linking Abraham's faith to the faith required of believers in Jesus Christ. Just as Abraham was justified by faith in God's promise, so are Christians justified by faith in the resurrection of Jesus. "He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification" (Romans 4:25, NIV). This final verse encapsulates the essence of the gospel: Jesus' death and resurrection provide the basis for our justification and righteousness before God.

The teachings of Romans 4 have profound implications for Christians. They affirm that righteousness is a gift from God, received through faith, and not something we can earn through our efforts or adherence to the law. This doctrine of justification by faith alone is central to Christian belief and provides the foundation for our relationship with God. It assures us that our salvation is secure, not because of what we have done, but because of what Christ has done for us.

Moreover, Romans 4 encourages believers to have a faith like Abraham's—one that trusts in God's promises, even when circumstances seem impossible. It reminds us that God is faithful and powerful, able to fulfill His promises. This chapter challenges us to live by faith, trusting in God's grace and relying on His righteousness, not our own.

In conclusion, Romans chapter 4 masterfully explains righteousness through faith by using the example of Abraham, contrasting works and faith, and highlighting the significance of God's promises. Paul's argument is both theologically rich and practically relevant, offering assurance and encouragement to believers. As we reflect on this chapter, may we be inspired to deepen our faith in God's promises and rest in the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ.