Rom 4:1 | MHM | STEP | The Case of Abraham Paul uses the example of Abraham to show that justification comes by faith, not by works. This is important because many Jews believed they could earn righteousness through their actions and privileges as Abraham’s descendants. Paul explains that Abraham, the father of their nation, was not justified by his works but by his faith in God. This teaching is foundational to understanding how we are made right with God. v. 1 : Paul begins by asking, What shall we say that Abraham our father has found? (Romans 4:1 ). Abraham, who is highly respected by the Jews, is presented as an example. If anyone could claim righteousness through works, it would be Abraham. But Paul challenges this idea by asking what Abraham gained as pertaining to the flesh , meaning through external actions like circumcision and religious privileges. The answer is that Abraham did not achieve righteousness through these things.

‏ Romans 4:1

The Case of Abraham

Paul uses the example of Abraham to show that justification comes by faith, not by works. This is important because many Jews believed they could earn righteousness through their actions and privileges as Abraham’s descendants. Paul explains that Abraham, the father of their nation, was not justified by his works but by his faith in God. This teaching is foundational to understanding how we are made right with God.

v. 1: Paul begins by asking, What shall we say that Abraham our father has found? (Romans 4:1 ^a). Abraham, who is highly respected by the Jews, is presented as an example. If anyone could claim righteousness through works, it would be Abraham. But Paul challenges this idea by asking what Abraham gained as pertaining to the flesh, meaning through external actions like circumcision and religious privileges. The answer is that Abraham did not achieve righteousness through these things.