"What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter? If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God" (Romans 4:1-2)

What a shocking statement!

Imagine reading a mind-blowing essay turning everything you knew about God upside down.

Would you be reeling?

The next question after Paul described the righteousness that comes through faith is: What good was Abraham’s works?

This is Abraham! Father of the Jewish nation, patriarch of the entire race. The Apostle Paul uses his example to prove: “… that a man is justified by faith apart from observing the law” (Rom. 3:28).

Here’s what’s shocking. The Jews claimed right standing with God came from circumcision and following the law. 

But, Paul said Abraham could not boast either of these, yet God declared him righteous (Gen. 15:6).

Abraham’s behavior didn’t count because the law wasn’t around during his lifetime. Moses received it 430 years later (Gal. 3:17). 

Circumcision didn’t count because God declared Abraham righteous long before God circumcised him (Rom. 4:10). 

What made Abraham extraordinary?

Simple, he trusted God. That’s it! He trusted everything God said to him when circumstances were contrary to God’s promises.

This made Abraham extraordinary!

God declared Abraham righteous (in right standing with Him) because Abraham trusted Him, period! No wonder the Apostle Paul was quick to prove that no one is acceptable by the things they do and based on Abraham’s example.

I wonder if we, too, like Abraham’s should trust when God says, “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe” (Rom. 3:22a).

What does it mean for you today to accept God’s gift of righteousness without trying to earn it?

Previous: Romans 3:29-31  Next: Romans 4:3

Original article published June 29, 2009.

Chances are many of you do. You’ve faithfully followed this blog for years, occasionally sending me an encouraging note.

Many of you are new after subscribing over the past year during which I took a hiatus from writing, and so you might not even remember how you got on my subscription list.

To all of you by all of your paths, I say, Welcome!

Here is what’s new:

We had a beautiful baby girl named Lillian. She’s incredible.

I’ve learned to slow down and enjoy quiet moments that are now more active and fun. I’ve taken time to savor these fleeting things, but something in my heart has grown restless and I know it’s longing for expression.