Romans 4:1

Abraham Justified by Faith · Romans 4:1–12
Read Romans 4

Translations

Modern
What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has discovered?
Traditional
What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?
Literal
What then will we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has found?
Latin
Quid ergo dicemus invenisse Abraham patrem nostrum secundum carnem?

Original

Greek
English
What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has discovered?

Notes

Jews in Paul’s time honored Abraham as the founder of Israel. Some Jewish writings even claim that Abraham never sinned (Prayer of Manasseh 8; Jubilees 23:10). Other writings stress his obedience and connect his relationship with God to keeping the law of Moses (1 Maccabees 2:52; Sirach 44:19–20).

Paul argues differently. He shows that Abraham’s faith, not his obedience to the law, is what put him in a right relationship with God. Because Abraham is the founder of God’s people, his example shows that being made right with God by faith stands at the center of God’s plan.

Theme notes and profiles

Abraham Paul (Saul)

Parallels

Genesis 15:1–7 Psalm 32:1–11 Hebrews 11:8–19

People

Abraham: Patriarch, chosen by God to father His people

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Faith Freedom, Liberty Imputation Isaac Letter to the Romans Righteousness

Topics

Abraham: Faith of Bigotry: Paul's Argument Against Catholicity: Inculcated Faith: General Scriptures Concerning Rome: Justification by Faith in Jesus Christ Rome: The Faith of Abraham Salvation: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Sin: Paul's Discussion of the Responsibility For Works: Insufficiency of, for Salvation