Romans 4:3
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For, what saith the Scripture? - The Scriptural account of this transaction, Gen 15:6, is decisive; for there it is said, Abraham believed God, and it was counted, ελογισθη, it was reckoned to him for righteousness, εις δικαιοσυνην, for justification.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For what saith the, Scripture? Abraham believed God, and it--his faith. was counted to him for righteousness-- (Gen 15:6). Romish expositors and Arminian Protestants make this to mean that God accepted Abraham's act of believing as a substitute for complete obedience. But this is at variance with the whole spirit and letter of the apostle's teaching. Throughout this whole argument, faith is set in direct opposition to works, in the matter of justification--and even in Rom 4:4-5. The meaning, therefore, cannot possibly be that the mere act of believing--which is as much a work as any other piece of commanded duty (Joh 6:29; Jo1 3:23) --was counted to Abraham for all obedience. The meaning plainly is that Abraham believed in the promises which embraced Christ (Gen 12:3; Gen 15:5, &c.), as we believe in Christ Himself; and in both cases, faith is merely the instrument that puts us in possession of the blessing gratuitously bestowed.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For what saith the Scripture?.... This answers to "what is that which is written" (c)? or what does the Scripture say? which is a way of speaking used by the Jews, when anything is proposed, which seems contrary to Scripture, as here justification by works does. A testimony from Scripture is here produced, proving that Abraham was justified by faith, and not by works: the place referred to is Gen 15:6; Abraham believed God; the object of his faith and trust were not his riches, nor his righteousness, but Jehovah, the Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, styled in Gen 15:1, "the Word of the Lord", the essential Word of God, and called his "shield", and "exceeding great reward"; characters which are very applicable to Christ: and this faith of his in the Lord was not a mere assent to the promise of God, but a fiducial act of faith in him; and was not merely concerned with temporal, but with spiritual things, and particularly about Christ the promised seed: and it was counted to him for righteousness, the meaning of which is not, that Abraham imputed righteousness to God, or celebrated his righteousness and faithfulness, as some; or that the world reckoned Abraham a righteous person, as others; but that God reckoned him righteous, or imputed it to him for righteousness: and the question is, what the it is which was counted to him for righteousness? and that this is to be understood, , "concerning faith", as R. Solomon Jarchi says, is out of question; for this is expressly said by the apostle, Rom 4:9. The only one is, whether it means the grace of faith by which he believed; or the object of faith on which he believed, and with which his faith was conversant: not the former, for that is not righteousness, nor accounted so; but is distinguished from it, and is that by which a person receives and lays hold on righteousness; besides, whatever may be alleged in favour of the imputation of Abraham's faith to himself for righteousness, it can never be thought to be imputed to others on that account; whereas the very selfsame it is imputed to others also; see Rom 4:24; it remains then that it was the promised seed, the Messiah, and his righteousness, which Abraham, by faith, looked unto, and believed in, that was made unto him righteousness by imputation. Now since so great and good a man as Abraham was not justified by works, but by faith in the righteousness of the Messiah, it follows, that none of his sons, nor any other person whatever, ought to seek for, or expect to be justified in any other way. (c) T. Bab. Beracot, fol. 5. 1. & 15. 2. & passim.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:3 Paul quotes Gen 15:6. In response to God’s promise that he would have descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky, Abraham believed God. It was faith that established Abraham’s relationship with God—not works (Rom 4:3-8), circumcision (4:9-12), the law (4:13-17), or the number of his descendants (4:18-21).
Romans 4:3
Abraham Justified by Faith
2If Abraham was indeed justified by works, he had something to boast about, but not before God. 3For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
It Comes Down to Faith (1 of 4)
By Paul Washer4.4K1:14:47Trust in God's CharacterFaithPSA 37:5PRO 3:5ISA 26:3MAT 6:33ROM 4:32CO 5:7PHP 4:19HEB 11:1JAS 1:61PE 5:7Paul Washer emphasizes the profound journey of faith, illustrating how true faith evolves from seeking blessings and feelings to a deep relationship with God Himself. He contrasts immaturity in faith, which seeks God's gifts, with maturity that seeks the Giver, highlighting that faith is rooted in understanding God's character and His promises. Washer stresses that faith is not merely a leap into the unknown but a confident assurance based on God's revealed Word, urging believers to trust in God's goodness and wisdom in all aspects of life. He challenges listeners to examine their faith and obedience, asserting that true faith manifests in a life that reflects trust in God's character and His commands.
(Genesis) Genesis 15:6-10
By J. Vernon McGee2.8K07:01GenesisGEN 15:6MAT 6:33ROM 4:3GAL 3:6GAL 3:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of making contracts and having written agreements in the time of Abraham. He explains that in those days, contracts were made by joining hands and walking through a sacrifice. However, Abraham, being a practical man, asks God for something in writing to confirm his inheritance of the land. God then tells Abraham to believe in Him, and Abraham's belief is counted as righteousness. This verse is later referenced by Paul in the fourth chapter of Romans.
(Through the Bible) Romans 5-6
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:18:41Through The BibleROM 3:24ROM 4:3ROM 5:20ROM 6:1ROM 8:1ROM 8:38In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose of the law and its contrast with grace. The law reveals how far humanity has fallen short of God's ideal, highlighting the need for grace. Despite sin reigning and leading to death, grace overflows and reigns through righteousness, offering eternal life through Jesus Christ. The sermon also mentions the upcoming chapters 7 and 8 of the Bible, which explore the depths of despair in trying to achieve the divine ideal in one's own strength, but also offer hope and victory through God's provisions.
(Covenant Series) 2. Abraham
By Al Whittinghill1.3K52:44Covenant SeriesGEN 15:6JHN 8:56ROM 4:3GAL 3:6JAS 2:23REV 1:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of a covenant between God and Abram (later known as Abraham). The speaker explains that in a covenant, both parties typically have something to offer, but Abram had nothing to give. Instead, God put Abram to sleep and walked through the split animals in his place, symbolizing an unequal covenant where God is the one who gives everything. The speaker emphasizes that all God wants from us is our love and acceptance of his covenant.
Abraham: The Life of Faith - Part 4
By Roy Hession1.1K52:08AbrahamGEN 12:1GEN 15:5GEN 21:13GEN 22:1ROM 4:3ROM 4:24In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting in God during difficult and uncertain times. He refers to a quote from Amy Carmichael about the disciples in the boat with Jesus, highlighting the significance of the moments when God's power seems silent and the waves of life are high. The speaker shares personal experiences and examples to illustrate how doubt and fear can lead to misguided attempts to find solutions outside of God's provision. He encourages listeners to have faith and praise God even in the midst of delays and challenges, drawing inspiration from the story of Abraham's faith in God's promises.
The Journey
By Jim Cymbala93124:08Christian LifeGEN 12:1GEN 12:4MAT 6:33MRK 16:15ACT 16:31ROM 4:3HEB 11:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that Abraham did not have a Bible, but God still spoke to him and guided him. The preacher encourages the audience to be open to God's approaches, whether through dreams, songs, or the words of a child. The sermon emphasizes the importance of receiving and holding onto God's promises, as they have the power to transform and bless our lives. The preacher challenges the audience to seek a deeper spiritual movement and not settle for a mundane Christian life.
Getting the Report
By Manley Beasley78450:31FaithGEN 15:6EXO 4:10MAT 6:33JHN 6:28ROM 4:3HEB 11:2JAS 2:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of understanding the second verse of Hebrews 11 in order to tap into God's power and purpose. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about receiving a book by G. Campbell Morgan on the exposition of Hebrews 11 from a lady named Bertha Smith. Using a simple illustration of choosing a sturdy pew in a rotten auditorium, the speaker emphasizes the need to exercise faith in God's promises. The sermon also highlights the significance of worship as the key to overcoming problems and challenges in life.
Faith That Walks With God
By Robert B. Thompson69054:39GEN 6:9PSA 1:5PSA 119:105MAT 5:16LUK 1:6JHN 5:39ROM 4:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prioritizing our pursuit of Christ over material possessions and worldly achievements. He highlights the distractions and busyness of our culture that hinder us from focusing on the goal of knowing and seeking Jesus. The speaker also addresses the issue of teaching evolution in schools and the need for people to believe in the existence of God. He encourages a balanced approach to faith, combining the study of God's word with the power and worship of the Holy Spirit.
(Elijah Legacy) 6. Restoring the Altar of the Lord
By David Davis55610:14IsraelJDG 7:161KI 17:2PSA 51:17MRK 14:3LUK 9:31ROM 4:32CO 12:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the concept of brokenness as a crucial aspect of one's relationship with God. He refers to various biblical examples, such as the story of Gideon and the revival in Galilee, to illustrate how God uses broken people for His purposes. The preacher also highlights the significance of the cross as the altar of the Lord and encourages individuals to surrender their egos, pride, and sinful desires to be transformed by God. Ultimately, the message emphasizes the need for individuals to be broken before God in order to experience His mercy, grace, and transformation in their lives.
Psalm 32 ~ Durham Nc-1949
By Harry Ironside53446:44Christian LifePSA 32:1PSA 32:10ROM 4:3In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man who had robbed a jewelry store and later found salvation while in prison. The preacher emphasizes the urgency of accepting salvation and warns that delaying it may lead to missing the opportunity altogether. He encourages those who have been putting off accepting Jesus to do so now, as there is no guarantee of tomorrow. The preacher also shares a personal anecdote about playing with his son and relates it to the concept of finding a hiding place in God.
Covenant of Abraham
By R. Edward Miller48249:49CovenantPSA 22:16LUK 24:25ROM 4:3ROM 6:12HEB 9:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of understanding the necessity of Jesus' sacrifice. He references Hebrews 9:12, which states that Jesus entered the holy place with his own blood to obtain eternal redemption for humanity. The preacher then delves into the covenant of Abraham, highlighting Luke 24:25-26, where Jesus refers to the prophecies about his crucifixion and resurrection. The preacher emphasizes the clarity and accuracy of these prophecies, emphasizing that they do not require interpretation but rather serve as a clear testament to the fulfillment of God's plan.
Romans 2 - 4
By John Nelson Darby0Justification By FaithUniversal SinfulnessROM 1:17ROM 2:6ROM 3:10ROM 3:23ROM 3:28ROM 4:3ROM 4:5ROM 4:7ROM 4:24John Nelson Darby expounds on Romans chapters 2 to 4, emphasizing the universal guilt of both Jews and Gentiles before God due to sin, and the futility of seeking righteousness through the law. He highlights that true righteousness comes through faith, as exemplified by Abraham and David, and is made possible by the redemptive work of Christ. Darby stresses that God's righteousness is revealed apart from the law and is accessible to all who believe, providing a foundation for justification and peace with God. He concludes that believers are justified freely by grace through faith in Christ, who has borne the penalty for sin and offers a new life in Him.
Earthen Vessels
By David Wilkerson0God's Power in WeaknessDivine PurposePSA 34:18ISA 40:29MAT 5:14ROM 4:31CO 1:262CO 4:72CO 12:9PHP 4:132TI 1:71PE 2:9David Wilkerson emphasizes the profound truth found in 2 Corinthians 4:7, which reveals that God places His treasure in earthen vessels, highlighting our human frailty and weaknesses. He explains that God intentionally chooses the weak and foolish to demonstrate His power, as seen in 1 Corinthians 1:26-29, and that our imperfections do not disqualify us from being used by Him. Wilkerson encourages believers to embrace their vulnerabilities, as God delights in working through those who recognize their need for Him, just as He did with figures like Abraham. The sermon reassures us that despite our struggles and shortcomings, we are vessels of God's glory and purpose.
Of the Exhibitions of the Covenant of Grace in the Patriarchal State.
By John Gill0Covenant of GraceFaith in GodGEN 3:15GEN 6:8GEN 12:1GEN 15:6GEN 17:4GEN 22:14GEN 28:13JOB 19:25ROM 4:3HEB 11:4John Gill expounds on the exhibitions of the covenant of grace during the patriarchal state, illustrating how it was revealed from Adam to Abraham. He emphasizes the significance of key figures such as Adam, Abel, Noah, and Abraham, each representing aspects of God's grace and the promise of salvation through faith. Gill highlights the prophetic nature of these figures, showing how they foreshadow Christ and the ultimate fulfillment of the covenant. The sermon underscores the continuity of God's grace throughout history, culminating in the gospel. Through these patriarchs, the foundations of faith and the promise of redemption are established for all believers.
"Them That Have faith." "Now faith..."
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthFaithROM 4:3HEB 2:10HEB 5:9HEB 5:14HEB 7:19HEB 11:1HEB 11:40HEB 12:23T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that faith is the essential link between God's calling and the realization of His promises, as illustrated in Hebrews 11. He argues that true faith is tested by the believer's position in a spiritual age, where external validation is absent, and that the focus should be on spiritual growth rather than temporal achievements. The sermon highlights that the heroes of faith were not only defined by their actions but also by their ultimate goal of spiritual completeness in Christ. Sparks warns against the dangers of relying on external rituals and encourages believers to cultivate a deeper, inward faith that connects them to God. Ultimately, he concludes that faith is the assurance of things hoped for, leading to a complete inheritance in Christ.
"Some Better Thing"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual SonshipFaithROM 4:3HEB 11:40T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the theme of completeness in faith as presented in Hebrews 11, illustrating how the faith of biblical figures like David leads to spiritual sonship and fullness. He highlights that true sonship is characterized by disinterested devotion to God's purposes, as seen in David's desire to build a temple for God, which he ultimately relinquished for the sake of God's plan. The sermon also discusses the importance of laying aside burdens and distractions that hinder spiritual progress, urging believers to focus on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith. Sparks encourages the congregation to recognize that faith connects all generations in pursuit of spiritual completeness, and that Jesus' example shows that triumph is possible through faith. The message concludes with a call to trust in God's provision for spiritual rest and freedom from burdens.
God Hath Spoken - Part 5
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthFaithROM 4:3HEB 2:10HEB 5:9HEB 5:14HEB 7:19HEB 11:1HEB 11:40HEB 12:23T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the critical role of faith in the life of believers, particularly as outlined in Hebrews 11. He explains that faith serves as the vital link between God's calling and the fulfillment of His promises, urging believers to recognize that true spiritual growth is inward and not reliant on external validation. The sermon highlights that the current dispensation is marked by spiritual testing, where faith must prevail over visible evidence and worldly success. Sparks warns against the dangers of relying on temporal elements, which can undermine genuine faith, and stresses that the ultimate goal is spiritual completeness in Christ. He concludes by affirming that the heroes of faith, while not receiving the promise in their lifetime, looked forward to the fulfillment of God's plan through Christ, which connects them to believers today.
The Epistle to the Romans
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ROM 3:21ROM 4:3ROM 5:1ROM 5:5Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the profound truths revealed in the Epistle to the Romans, emphasizing the righteousness of God manifested in the Gospel, the justification by faith illustrated through Abraham and David, and the blessed results of justification including peace with God, access to grace, and the hope of the glory of God. He highlights the importance of faith in Christ's atoning work, the significance of Christ's resurrection for our justification, and the assurance of salvation through faith alone.
History of Abram
By John Nelson Darby0Personal Communion with GodFaith and ObedienceGEN 12:1GEN 13:14GEN 14:18GEN 15:6GEN 17:1GEN 18:17ROM 4:3GAL 3:6HEB 11:8JAS 2:23John Nelson Darby explores the life of Abram as a profound illustration of the life of faith, emphasizing the distinction between public worship and personal communion with God. He highlights Abram's calling from darkness into the light of God's promises, his journey towards the land of promise, and the importance of trusting God amidst challenges. Darby notes that true worship arises from a personal relationship with God, which is cultivated through faith and obedience. The sermon also reflects on Abram's failures and restoration, illustrating the necessity of renouncing worldly influences to fully embrace God's blessings.
Divine Layaway
By Miles J. Stanford0PSA 138:8ROM 4:32CO 4:6PHP 3:12PHP 3:14Miles J. Stanford emphasizes the journey of growth in faith, acknowledging that while we have not yet attained perfection, we are continually pursued by Christ Jesus for the purpose of apprehending His truths. He reflects on the hidden and gradual nature of God's workings, urging believers to have faith and patience in God's timing for perfecting His plans in our lives. Stanford highlights the importance of faith in apprehending God's promises, even if the fulfillment may take time, emphasizing that God's revelations will eventually manifest in our lives. He concludes by encouraging believers to press forward towards the ultimate goal of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus, serving both with their abilities and in their vulnerabilities.
Does Islam Teach Salvation by Works?
By Matt Slick0JER 17:9JHN 6:47ROM 4:3ROM 5:11CO 15:1GAL 2:21EPH 2:81PE 2:24Matt Slick discusses the contrasting views of salvation between Christianity and Islam, emphasizing that Christianity teaches salvation by grace alone through faith in Jesus Christ, while Islam combines Allah's grace with the works of the believer for forgiveness and entry into Paradise. Slick points out the uncertainty and lack of assurance in Islam regarding salvation, as it depends on the balance of good and bad deeds on Judgment Day, contrasting with the assurance of salvation in Christianity through faith in Christ's finished work on the cross.
Effective Prayer - James 5:16
By Jon Courson01KI 17:11KI 18:45MAT 6:7LUK 11:1JHN 15:7ROM 4:32CO 5:172CO 5:21JAS 5:16Jon Courson emphasizes the power and priority of prayer, using the example of Elijah to illustrate the effectiveness of effectual, fervent, and righteous prayers. He explains that effectual prayer is aligned with God's Word, fervent prayer involves persistence and deep relationship-building with God, and righteous prayer is based on faith in Jesus Christ. Courson encourages combining prayer with reading the Word to have engaging devotional times and to pray consistently with confidence in God's promises.
Gather My Saints Together
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 15:17GEN 22:12PSA 50:5MAL 3:16ROM 4:3EPH 4:16EPH 5:18COL 2:192TH 2:1HEB 10:25T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the end-time movement and the importance of a deep, inward spiritual knowledge of the Lord gained through personal experience, as seen in the Psalms which represent permanent spiritual gain. The end-time instrument will be those who know the Lord intimately through a history of deep experiences. The sermon emphasizes the covenant with God by sacrifice, illustrated through Abram's life, as the basis for the gathering of His saints. It highlights the need for a gathering unto the Lord Himself, prayer-fellowship, spiritual food, and a ministry that feeds the hungry souls seeking true spiritual nourishment.
The Knowledge of Salvation
By George Cutting0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:113JHN 6:47ROM 4:31JN 5:91JN 5:13George Cutting emphasizes the importance of knowing that believers have eternal life through faith in the Son of God, contrasting the uncertainty of man's feelings with the certainty of God's Word. He illustrates this with the story of the Passover in Egypt, showing how the sprinkled blood made the Israelites safe, but it was God's spoken word that made them sure of their salvation. Cutting stresses that true faith is not based on works or emotions, but solely on trusting in the trustworthy Person of Jesus Christ and relying on His finished work for eternal security.
Righteousness
By George MacDonald0MAT 5:48ROM 4:32CO 5:21PHP 3:8JAS 2:23George MacDonald preaches about the righteousness that is of God by faith, emphasizing that it is not based on legalistic concepts like imputed righteousness or vicarious sacrifice, but rather on a deep, obedient relationship with God. He challenges the idea that righteousness is merely following laws, highlighting that true righteousness is a transformation of character that aligns with God's nature and will. MacDonald stresses the importance of faith in God as the foundation of righteousness, leading to a life of love, justice, and mercy towards others, reflecting God's righteousness in our own lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For, what saith the Scripture? - The Scriptural account of this transaction, Gen 15:6, is decisive; for there it is said, Abraham believed God, and it was counted, ελογισθη, it was reckoned to him for righteousness, εις δικαιοσυνην, for justification.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For what saith the, Scripture? Abraham believed God, and it--his faith. was counted to him for righteousness-- (Gen 15:6). Romish expositors and Arminian Protestants make this to mean that God accepted Abraham's act of believing as a substitute for complete obedience. But this is at variance with the whole spirit and letter of the apostle's teaching. Throughout this whole argument, faith is set in direct opposition to works, in the matter of justification--and even in Rom 4:4-5. The meaning, therefore, cannot possibly be that the mere act of believing--which is as much a work as any other piece of commanded duty (Joh 6:29; Jo1 3:23) --was counted to Abraham for all obedience. The meaning plainly is that Abraham believed in the promises which embraced Christ (Gen 12:3; Gen 15:5, &c.), as we believe in Christ Himself; and in both cases, faith is merely the instrument that puts us in possession of the blessing gratuitously bestowed.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For what saith the Scripture?.... This answers to "what is that which is written" (c)? or what does the Scripture say? which is a way of speaking used by the Jews, when anything is proposed, which seems contrary to Scripture, as here justification by works does. A testimony from Scripture is here produced, proving that Abraham was justified by faith, and not by works: the place referred to is Gen 15:6; Abraham believed God; the object of his faith and trust were not his riches, nor his righteousness, but Jehovah, the Son of God, the second person in the Trinity, styled in Gen 15:1, "the Word of the Lord", the essential Word of God, and called his "shield", and "exceeding great reward"; characters which are very applicable to Christ: and this faith of his in the Lord was not a mere assent to the promise of God, but a fiducial act of faith in him; and was not merely concerned with temporal, but with spiritual things, and particularly about Christ the promised seed: and it was counted to him for righteousness, the meaning of which is not, that Abraham imputed righteousness to God, or celebrated his righteousness and faithfulness, as some; or that the world reckoned Abraham a righteous person, as others; but that God reckoned him righteous, or imputed it to him for righteousness: and the question is, what the it is which was counted to him for righteousness? and that this is to be understood, , "concerning faith", as R. Solomon Jarchi says, is out of question; for this is expressly said by the apostle, Rom 4:9. The only one is, whether it means the grace of faith by which he believed; or the object of faith on which he believed, and with which his faith was conversant: not the former, for that is not righteousness, nor accounted so; but is distinguished from it, and is that by which a person receives and lays hold on righteousness; besides, whatever may be alleged in favour of the imputation of Abraham's faith to himself for righteousness, it can never be thought to be imputed to others on that account; whereas the very selfsame it is imputed to others also; see Rom 4:24; it remains then that it was the promised seed, the Messiah, and his righteousness, which Abraham, by faith, looked unto, and believed in, that was made unto him righteousness by imputation. Now since so great and good a man as Abraham was not justified by works, but by faith in the righteousness of the Messiah, it follows, that none of his sons, nor any other person whatever, ought to seek for, or expect to be justified in any other way. (c) T. Bab. Beracot, fol. 5. 1. & 15. 2. & passim.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:3 Paul quotes Gen 15:6. In response to God’s promise that he would have descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky, Abraham believed God. It was faith that established Abraham’s relationship with God—not works (Rom 4:3-8), circumcision (4:9-12), the law (4:13-17), or the number of his descendants (4:18-21).