Romans 4:1-25 | Jim Applegate | Redeemer Modesto
Key Thought: Righteousness by faith is hard to accept because we’d rather be in control than trust.
Summary: After Paul drives home the point that “all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God” he then tells us the greatest news of all times: “But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law…righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe.” Religious people have a hard time with the idea of faith…they’d rather have a score card, a check off list. The Jewish people in Paul’s crowd would immediately started thinking about the law and circumcision (both outward manifestations). Eager to prove righteousness by faith alone, Paul appeals to the two biggest names in Jewish history, Abraham and David. Abraham is the father of the Jewish people…he was the ‘original Jew’. David was the greatest king in Jewish history, winning more battles, writing more Psalms, being a man after God’s own heart. Paul tells us that both these men ‘believed God and it was counted to them as righteousness’. As we look at Abrahams life, we see that both the law and circumcision are revealed after Abraham puts his trust in God (read Genesis 12-17). And, as we look at David’s life, we see him state that it is not his obedience that makes him righteous, but rather God (read Psalm 32:1-2). The question that we have to ask is “why do the Jews (and why do we) like or want a works based righteousness?” The answer can be very simple…we want to be in control. If there is a score card or check-list, then we get to be the score-keepers. However, if it is all about faith, then trust is all we have to rely on, and this leaves us feeling out of control. But isn’t this the main point of the Christian faith…that we can trust God, that we must trust God. Paul tells us that if we are constantly trying to earn our way to God, there will be no end to the question “have I done enough?” This is a burden to great for us to bear, both emotionally and physically. However, when we believe we are saved by faith alone, Paul tells us seven great benefits: 1. No need of boasting (verse 2). 2. No continual earning (verses 4-5). 3. We are the recipient of a gift (verses 4-5). 4. Blessing (verses 6-8) 5. New identity (verse 12). 6. Assurance (verses 16-17) 7. Hope when there is none (verses 18-25).
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