Faith Over Works: The Righteousness of God Revealed

The faithfulness of Yahweh

Bible Passage: Romans 4:1–8

Summary: If you are joining us for the first time in our study of the book of Romans, so far in the first three chapters, we have learned that God has revealed his invisible attributes, namely his eternal power and divine nature to all men through the visible creation, so that no one is without excuse before the judgement seat of God.

We read further that God gave the law to Israel

Romans 4, along with Galatians 3 and Hebrews 11 presents Abraham as a model of faith, illustrating how righteousness is credited to those who believe, or put their hope and trust in the FAITHFULNESS of God.

Paul had little exposure to the new testament, as it had mostly not been written during his lifetime, and he himself wrote the majority of it. We must understand and appreciate that Paul’s letters and theology were firmly rooted in the old testament scriptures.

Application: This passage assures Christians that their faith in Jesus Christ is what justifies them before God. In a world that often emphasizes achievement and performance, believers can find peace in knowing that their standing with God is based solely on faith, helping them overcome feelings of inadequacy and guilt.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that righteousness before God is a gift received through faith, not something earned by human effort. It emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's promises and recognizing our need for His grace.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage points to Christ as the fulfillment of God's promise to justify sinners. Abraham's faith is a precursor to the ultimate faith placed in Jesus, who became the source of righteousness for all who believe. The theme of grace through faith is central to the gospel message.

Big Idea: True righteousness comes through faith in Christ, freeing us from the burden of striving for acceptance before God through our works.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon using your Logos library, consider examining the cultural background of first-century Judaism regarding faith and works. Investigate different interpretations of 'justification' in Pauline literature, and explore how the theme of faith versus works is treated in Romans and Galatians. This could provide a deeper understanding of Paul’s argument and enhance your teaching.

1. Foundations of Faith

Romans 4:1-3

There is a widespread misunderstanding of the function of the law in the old testament. Most Christians believe that the levitical system of animal sacrifices was primarily about the forgiveness and atonement for personal sins and moral failings, but that could not be further from the truth.

John 6:29

English Standard Version Chapter 6

Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.”

The hall of faith in Hebrews 11 suggests that the old testament patriarchs all operated on faith.

In the first three chapters of Romans, Paul has already exposed the inadequacy of the law to justify

You could begin by examining how Abraham's faith in God's promises, despite his circumstances, demonstrates righteousness credited apart from works. These verses lay the foundation for understanding that belief, not deeds, is key to pleasing God. By studying Abraham's trust, believers may see that faith in Christ, similar to Abraham's faith, assures them of God's righteousness, freeing them from relying on personal achievements for God's acceptance.

300 Quotations for Preachers Faith Alone Justifies, but Is Not Alone

It is … faith alone which justifies, and yet the faith which justifies is not alone.

JOHN CALVIN

2. Gift over Earnings

Romans 4:4-5

Perhaps, you could illustrate the contrast between wages earned and gifts received by discussing these verses. They argue that righteousness comes not from working but from believing in the One who justifies the ungodly. This point emphasizes the role of God’s grace and provides reassurance against striving for favor through merit—aligning with the theme of faith-based righteousness.

3. Blessings of Belief

Romans 4:6-8

Maybe, by exploring David's testimony about the blessedness of those forgiven and having faith, you might convey how beautiful it is to trust in God's mercy rather than human efforts. These verses speak to the inner joy and peace granted through divine forgiveness, underscoring that faith in Christ leads to true happiness and acceptance before God—highlighting the liberation from self-reliance.

At Babel, men said, “Let us!” but to Abraham, God said, “I will.” At Babel, men wanted to make a name for themselves; but it was God who made Abraham’s name great.

Warren W. Wiersbe

All Abraham knew was that (a) God planned the future around Isaac, and (b) God wanted him to sacrifice Isaac. He could not reconcile the two, but he would obey anyway. That is faith.

Allen P. Ross