Introduction
As we saw yesterday in Romans 3, so we see here, the tension between the good "law" given by God and recorded in the Old Testament and a righteousness that comes by "faith."
Paul never invalidates the former (we know that Jesus fully kept the law and lived a perfect life) but he is calling people to the latter.
A central figure in this discussion is Abraham. We recall God's covenant promises made to Abraham in the early chapters of the Bible. Paul points out that, because Abraham believed, he was found righteous. It was not something that he earned and, therefore, we should not try to earn it either.
Questions
To illustrate the concept of faith, what two people from the Old Testament does Paul mention (vv. 1-8)?
What two groups of people can point to Abraham as a "father" (vv. 11-12)?
How is God described in the second half of v. 17?
What did Abraham believe about God - especially v. 21?
From v. 24, how will God "credit righteousness" to us?
From v. 25, what did the resurrection accomplish for the believer?
Reflection
The bulk of this chapter is an invitation to faith. Paul draws heavily from the Old Testament, especially the life and calling of Abraham.
Most of Paul's hearers would acknowledge that Abraham was a great man of faith. Citing that example, Paul is inviting people to put their faith in Christ.
We should pause, then, and think about this extraordinary invitation. How will we respond? How will we live?
One final word - there are two beautiful statements made about God in this chapter:
"The God who gives life to the dead and calls things that are not as though they were." -Romans 4:17
"Being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." -Romans 4:22
As you prepare your heart to pray, be reminded that your God gives life to dead things. And calls things (gives identity, purpose, value, significance) to things that have been neglected, dismissed, and thrown away.
Maybe you sense that in one area of your life; or, maybe you sense that for the totality of life. In either case, be encouraged. Remember the example of Abraham, who "against all hope ... in hope believed" (v. 18).
Be reminded that God has power. All power. And he keeps promises. He always does. Not a single promise has been left unfulfilled.
Remind your heart again about the power and promise of God. He kept the promise he made to Abraham and Abraham believed. He will keep the promise He has made to you - do you believe?