In this message, we dive into Romans 4, where the Apostle Paul uses Abraham’s example to illustrate the principle of faith. Paul addresses the misconception that righteousness is obtained through works, emphasizing instead that it comes solely by faith.

Abraham: A Model of Faith

Paul begins by referencing Abraham, the father of the Hebrew people, as the prime example of faith. For a Jewish person, Abraham was the pinnacle of leadership and righteousness. However, Paul points out that Abraham was not justified by works, but by faith in God. If Abraham had been justified by works, he would have had a reason to boast—but not before God (Romans 4:1-2). Instead, scripture states, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness” (Romans 4:3).

This was a significant point for the early church, especially for those still clinging to the Mosaic Law. The Old Testament often emphasized obedience to the law, but faith was always the key to true righteousness. Paul argues that attempting to be justified by works leads to boasting in oneself rather than in God, which is dangerous because it places man in the position of God.

Faith Over the Law

Paul further explains that righteousness is not earned through effort but is imputed—credited to us—by God through faith. He contrasts this with a worker earning wages: when someone is paid for their work, it is owed to them, but righteousness is not something we can earn. Instead, it is freely given by God’s grace to those who believe (Romans 4:4-5).

David, another revered figure in Jewish history, also speaks of this concept. In Psalm 32, David describes the blessedness of the man whose sins are forgiven, emphasizing that righteousness is given apart from works. Paul highlights how God does not impute sin to those who believe in Him but instead imputes righteousness through faith (Romans 4:6-8).

Grace vs. Works: A Gift, Not a Payment

To illustrate, the preacher gives an analogy: if someone were paid $100 for mowing a lawn, they would have earned it. But if they were given $100 for no reason, it would be a gift—not something they worked for. This is how God imputes righteousness: not as something we deserve, but as an act of His grace.

This does not mean we can live however we want. Just as someone who receives an undeserved gift may feel grateful and want to give back, faith naturally leads to righteous living. We do good works not because we have to, but because we want to, out of gratitude for God’s mercy.

Faith Precedes Obedience

Paul then emphasizes that Abraham was counted as righteous before he followed the Jewish practice of circumcision. The promise of righteousness was given to Abraham in Genesis 13, yet he was not circumcised until Genesis 17—14 years later. This proves that righteousness came through faith first, not through ritual obedience (Romans 4:9-12).

The preacher then draws a lesson for modern Christians: following religious traditions or moral standards does not make us righteous. Faith in God is what transforms us, and as our faith grows, our actions will naturally align with His will. When we struggle to pray, read scripture, or obey God, it is often because we lack faith.

Faith in Action

The sermon highlights the life of George Müller, a man known for his extraordinary faith. Müller trusted God to provide for orphans without ever asking for money—he simply prayed, and God provided. His unwavering faith allowed him to live righteously, demonstrating how faith leads to action.

If we truly believe God will do what He says, we will act accordingly. Struggling to pray? Have faith that God hears. Struggling to read the Bible? Have faith that it is His true word. When faith is strong, righteous living follows naturally.

Conclusion: Follow God by Faith

Paul closes this section of Romans by reaffirming that the promise given to Abraham was not through the law but through faith (Romans 4:13-16). This applies to all believers today. God directs our steps when we trust in Him. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding—when we acknowledge Him, He directs our paths.

Too often, churches focus on how Christians should look and act rather than teaching people to follow God in faith. Outward appearance and behavior mean nothing if they are not rooted in a genuine relationship with Christ. When we trust God, our actions will naturally reflect His righteousness.

Finally, Paul contrasts God’s grace with His mercy. By grace, God imputes righteousness to us. By mercy, He does not impute our sin to us. If God were to audit our sins, we would have no defense—but through faith, we receive His righteousness instead.

Faith is the victory that overcomes the world. If we try to justify ourselves through our works, we will always fall short. But if we trust in God’s righteousness, we will find true salvation and peace.

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