Righteous and Forgiven
Romans 4:1-8
📖 Scripture
1 What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, discovered in this matter?
2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God.
3 What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”
4 Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation.
5 However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness.
6 David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the one to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:
7 “Blessed are those whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.
8 Blessed is the one whose sin the Lord will never count against them.”
📝 Scripture Summary
Paul refers to Abraham, who was considered righteous because of faith, not because of works. If righteousness were based on works, it would be something owed. Paul reminds his readers that “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” He also quotes David, who describes the blessedness of those whose sins are forgiven and not counted against them.
💡 Memory Verse
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
– Romans 5:1
🔎 Reflection
Righteousness by Faith (4:1–5)
Paul uses the example of Abraham to discuss justification by faith and its relationship to works and righteousness. This can be a risky move since the Jews regard Abraham as the father of the circumcised and a model of obedience. However, Paul explains that a person is not justified by their works; even Abraham is credited with righteousness because of his belief in God, not his works. The one who trusts in God and places their faith in Him is credited with righteousness. Sometimes, we fall into a pattern of striving for righteousness through our works; we think we can earn righteousness by what we do. However, Paul reminds us of the power of faith: The righteous are those who place their trust in Jesus.
When do you fall into a pattern of thinking that you can earn righteousness? Reflect on the faith of Abraham and others in the Bible.
Blessed Are the Forgiven (4:6–8)
Paul offers another biblical example of an important and influential figure to the Jewish people—David. In the Psalms, David declares that the one whose sins are forgiven by God is truly blessed. The Lord does not count David’s many sins against him. David can be declared righteous despite his transgressions because he humbled himself and repented of his sin. This is an encouraging word for those who struggle with the idea that they could ever be declared righteous by God. We can rejoice in the knowledge that those who humble themselves and truly repent before God can receive the blessing of forgiveness and know that the Lord will not hold their sins against them.
How do you feel knowing that God will never hold your sins against you? Thank and praise Him for the forgiveness and grace He has extended to you.
🌟 Today’s Inspiration
“Faith’s exclusive function is humbly to receive what grace offers.” – John Stott
🙏 Prayer
Dear God, thank you for the examples of Abraham and David that show me the power of faith and the grace of Your forgiveness. When I struggle, remind me that righteousness is not earned and that You will not hold my sins against me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
✍️ Essay
Revelations in God’s Word
When I began studying theology in seminary, I was surprised to discover that, even though I had been raised being part of a church my entire life, everything felt new. It was like I had stepped into an unknown world where I barely knew anything. As I went deeper into studying the Bible, I realized I had never truly learned many of these things in church. While the Bible is so dynamically interwoven to communicate God’s words, I had only understood it through scattered bits I had heard in Sunday sermons. As I actively sought to read the Bible and truly understand God’s will, I was amazed by what Scripture revealed.
In today’s passage, Paul’s words are remarkable. He brings up two key figures, Abraham and David, who hold deep significance for Jewish Christians. Some of these believers may have thought that they had power and privilege over Gentile believers, boasting in the Law and in circumcision as markers that they were the chosen people of God. However, Paul clearly points to Abraham and David as people who were declared righteous apart from their works. Their actions were not as important as their faith in God and their humility before Him.
I see my younger seminarian self in those Jewish Christians—having had God’s Word from a young age but not truly understanding it. As I learn more through Scripture, aiming to be a faithful steward of God’s Word, I see that God has already given us everything we need in the Bible. Our part is to stay committed to reading it daily and seeking to understand it well.
Written by Juyoung Kim