Romans Part 2 - FaithSample

FATHER ABRAHAM...

The Apostle Paul, up to this point, has been describing justification, the truth that a person is justified through faith alone, apart from works. Today's portion of Scripture (Romans 4:9-12) includes Paul’s reference to the patriarch, Abraham.

The Jewish population at the time of this writing believed that because they were blood offspring from Abraham, they were the exclusive recipients of salvation. The Jewish leaders believed (wrongly) that Abraham was justified before God because of his obedience and faithfulness to God. They thought that because they were the blood offspring of Abraham, and because they were also obedient and faithful, their righteousness was guaranteed (The Jews, as the chosen people, alone!).

Paul disputes this paradigm.

Using the timeline given in Genesis, he shows that Abraham was called righteous before he was circumcised. In fact, the narrative in Genesis clearly shows that Abraham was not entirely faithful and obedient. Some 14 years separate the point in time when God declares Abraham righteous, and when he commands Abraham to be circumcised. It was not circumcision, nor obedience and faithfulness on Abraham’s part, but God alone, imputing this righteousness unto Abraham. (Abraham believed) The circumcision of Abraham then was merely a sign that pointed back to the event where this “righteousness” from God occurred.

For the Gentiles (non-Jewish racially), this same argument is great news. The fact that Abraham was justified apart from circumcision means that it is not necessary to be circumcised in order to be justified. Nor is it necessary to be a Jew in order to be justified. Abraham, then, is the father to the Jews racially, but the spiritual father, or patriarch, to all who believe; both Jew and Gentile.

There is no partiality with God. Thank Him for the gift that He provides in spite of our sinful condition.

“Salvation belongs to the LORD. Your blessing is upon Your people. Selah". - Psalm 3:8

-Mike Vander Dussen

Family Corner Devotional Questions

What is faith and why does God care so much about it?