“…righteousness that comes by faith.” Romans 4:13c

Paul continued in his diatribe, that faith is credited as righteousness, by restating it another way:

“It was not through law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith.” (v.13)

By articulating the idea of God’s promise, Paul reinforced the premise of faith being the platform from which works originate. By believing God’s promise, Abraham trusted God enough to:

  • venture to a land he knew nothing about (Genesis 12:1-4).

  • receive the sign of the covenant through circumcision at the age of ninety-nine (Genesis 17:1-12)!

  • believe how God would bring about a great nation through him, even as an old man (NOTE: though I would have to point out that Abraham was far from what one would think to be a model saint, since he gave his wife away twice to save his own neck. [Genesis 12:10-15; Genesis 20:1-3], and was duped by his wife into thinking the promise would be fulfilled through her maidservant after God had told them both the promised heir would come through their seed. Read Genesis 16:1-4).

  • believe God could raise his only son up from the dead after being instructed to offer him to God as a sacrifice (Genesis 22:1-18; Hebrews 11:8-19).

Paul then contrasted the law against faith by stating:

“For if those who live by (the) law are heirs, faith has no value and the promise is worthless, because law brings wrath (the consequences of sin, as well as judgment). And where there is no law there is no transgression.” (vv. 14 – 15)

So, we see then that faith is made useless if we place our confidence in our works. What’s even worse, though, is if there were no law – everyone would be a law unto themselves and there would be complete anarchy. It is through the law one is made conscious of one’s sin and the need to be saved. The law’s purpose is both divine and practical, leading one to repentance while warning of evil things one should avoid.

I am thankful that God’s promise empowers me to trust God enough for my future supplied through His provision, His protection, and His peace. If you lack faith, ask Jesus for it – for He is The Author and Finisher of our faith. Then, like Abraham, follow God’s direction.

Have a blessed holiday weekend… be safe.