READ ROMANS 4:1-12

This morning we continue in the section of Romans that teaches we are justified through faith and made righteous on that basis.  Paul uses the faith of Abraham to demonstrate this reality.  Abraham was justified before he was circumcised and before the Law was given. Therefore, two major principles are established. Faith precludes religious rite or ritual (i.e., circumcision or baptism today). It also precludes doing good works (keeping the Law, i.e., keeping the Ten Commandments). 

Notice Romans 4:6-8, "Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, 7Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin." 

The Apostle Paul now strengthens his case by illustrating the principle that righteousness is imputed without works. He quotes David in Psalm 32:1-2. It is noteworthy that being justified without works is described as a blessing. Indeed, it is! In quoting Psalm 32:1-2, Paul notes the blessing it is to (1) have our iniquities forgiven; (2) our sins covered; and (3) our sins not imputed against us.  Both iniquity (which is willful, rebellious sin) and sin in general (missing the mark, and thus coming short) is dealt with. In quoting David and the Old Testament perspective, there indeed was a great blessing in having sin of any kind forgiven, covered, and not accounted against one. In the New Testament, our sin has not only been forgiven, but it has also been washed away by the blood of Christ and not accounted against us. The means of such justification is faith! It is blessed indeed.

4:9-10 "Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.  10How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision."

Paul now addresses a point many Jews probably had overlooked. Abraham’s justification had nothing to do with his circumcision. Abraham’s justification took place in Genesis 15:6. He was circumcised in Genesis 17:11-24. That was approximately fifteen years later. Paul, therefore, poses the question, “Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.” The blessing is justification.  Does it apply only for Jews (the circumcision) or, is it available for Gentiles also (the uncircumcision)? Recall that Abraham was justified by faith. Was Abraham therefore justified after he was circumcised or before? He was justified when he was uncircumcised!

It is important, once again, to remind ourselves that justification by faith precludes baptism and keeping the Law.  "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  In what way was Abraham justified by faith?

2.  How do we know that faith precludes both religious rites and good works?

3.  Read Psalm 32:1-2.  What three blessings are found therein according to Paul?

4.  Have you found forgiveness through faith in Christ?  When and where did this blessing happen in your life?