Romans 4

Romans chapter 4 teaches that Abraham was declared righteous by God because of his faith, not by works or obedience to the law, including circumcision. Paul uses Abraham as the prime example to show that justification—being made right before God—comes through faith alone, which is a gift from God and not earned by human effort.

Key points in Romans 4 include:

• Abraham believed God, and that belief was counted to him as righteousness (Romans 4:3, referencing Genesis 15:6).
• If Abraham had been justified by works, he would have had something to boast about, but justification is by faith, not works (Romans 4:2, 4–5).
• Paul anticipates a Jewish objection that Abraham was made righteous through circumcision (a work), but counters that Abraham was declared righteous before he was circumcised, making circumcision a sign or seal of the righteousness that was already credited to him (Romans 4:9–12).
• Abraham became a spiritual father not only to Jews but also to Gentiles who believe by faith, regardless of the physical sign of circumcision (Romans 4:11–12).
• Paul links this example to the broader principle that all who have faith in God—for both Jews and Gentiles—can receive the promise of righteousness and salvation as a free gift, not as a result of law-keeping or works.

The chapter emphasizes that faith credited as righteousness is a foundational principle for justification, illustrating that God's covenantal promises depend on faith, not legalistic observance. This teaching is used to unite Jewish and Gentile believers in one body of faith, showing that faith, and not ethnic lineage or law adherence, is what justifies a person before God.

In summary, Romans 4 highlights the doctrine of justification by faith alone, exemplified by Abraham's belief and God’s declaration of righteousness apart from works or law observance.