Have you ever wondered if God changed His plan throughout history? Did He operate differently in the Old Testament than He does now? These are important questions because when things happen in ways we don’t expect, it’s easy to wonder if God remains consistent and trustworthy.
Paul addresses this very issue in Romans 4 by looking back at Abraham, a foundational figure in Israel’s history. Abraham is significant because he represents faith and the relationship between God and His people. Paul asks: Was Abraham justified by works or by faith? The answer reveals the heart of God’s plan.
God Has Always Justified Sinners Through Faith
Paul reminds us that Abraham was counted righteous because he believed God, not because of religious works or obedience to the law. In Genesis 15:6, it says, “And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.” This was long before Abraham received the Law or the sign of circumcision, so his righteousness came through faith alone.
What does this mean for us? It means that God’s way of making people right with Himself has always been by faith. Abraham wasn’t a perfect man—he made mistakes—but God counted him righteous because of his trust in God’s promises.
The Law and Circumcision Are Signs, Not the Source, of Righteousness
The Jewish people valued circumcision as a physical sign of their covenant with God. Yet Paul points out that Abraham was declared righteous before he was circumcised. Circumcision marked what God had already done through faith. It wasn’t the means of righteousness but a seal on the promise.
Likewise, the Law of Moses, given centuries after Abraham, revealed God’s standards and exposed sin but could never make people righteous. The Law brings accountability—”the law brings wrath” (Romans 4:15)—because it reveals when we fail to meet God’s standards.
The Promise to Abraham Rested on Grace Through Faith
God’s promises to Abraham about being the father of many nations weren’t contingent on Abraham’s obedience to the Law but on faith. If righteousness came through the Law, then the promise would be worthless and faith meaningless (Romans 4:13-14).
God promised blessings that were impossible by human means. Abraham and Sarah were too old to have children, yet Abraham trusted God’s promise, believing “against all hope” (Romans 4:18), fully convinced God could do what He said. This faith was credited to him as righteousness.
Faith in God’s Power to Fulfill His Promises Is Our Assurance
Abraham’s faith wasn’t wishful thinking or ignoring reality. He clearly understood the obstacles but trusted God’s power to overcome them. This same God raised Jesus Christ from the dead, and through faith in Him, we too are counted righteous (Romans 4:24-25).
This means that trusting in Jesus’ death and resurrection is the foundation of our righteousness before God, not our own efforts or adherence to religious regulations.
What Does This Mean for You?
God’s plan to justify sinners through faith has not changed. He was faithful to Abraham, faithful in His promises, and He is faithful today. If you have never placed your faith in Jesus Christ, the God who raised Him from the dead stands ready to credit you with righteousness when you believe.
It’s not about being a good person or doing enough good deeds to earn God’s acceptance. It’s about trusting in what Jesus has already accomplished.
For those who already trust in Christ, this truth invites us to deepen our confidence in God’s promises. Our relationship with Him isn’t based on us measuring up but on what Jesus has finished for us.
Watch the Full Message: God’s Plan All Along
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Come Explore the Bible With Us
If these truths resonate with you or if you have questions about faith, righteousness, and God’s plan, we invite you to visit Calvary Chapel Thunder Mountain in Enumclaw. Come explore the Bible with a community that loves studying Scripture and discovering God’s faithfulness together. You can find current gathering details on our church website. We would love to welcome you.