Romans 4:24

but also for us, to whom righteousness will be credited--for us who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.

Study Bible

but also for us
This phrase extends the promise and assurance of faith beyond the historical figure of Abraham to all believers. The Greek word for "us" (ἡμᾶς, hēmas) is inclusive, indicating that the righteousness credited to Abraham is also available to all who share his faith. This highlights the universal nature of the Gospel, transcending time and ethnicity. Historically, this was a radical concept, as the early church was grappling with the inclusion of Gentiles. The phrase assures believers that the same faith that justified Abraham is effective for them, emphasizing the continuity of God's plan of salvation.

to whom righteousness will be credited—
The concept of "righteousness" (δικαιοσύνη, dikaiosynē) being "credited" (λογίζεται, logizetai) is central to Pauline theology. It reflects the idea of imputed righteousness, where believers are accounted as righteous through faith, not by works. This echoes Genesis 15:6, where Abraham's faith was credited as righteousness. In a historical context, this was a revolutionary idea, challenging the prevailing Jewish thought that righteousness was achieved through adherence to the Law. Paul is emphasizing that righteousness is a gift from God, not a human achievement, reinforcing the doctrine of justification by faith.

for us who believe in Him
The phrase underscores the necessity of faith in the believer's life. The Greek word for "believe" (πιστεύω, pisteuō) implies trust and reliance, not mere intellectual assent. This belief is specifically "in Him," referring to God, who raised Jesus from the dead. The historical context of this statement is crucial, as the early Christians were defining their faith in contrast to both Jewish and pagan beliefs. This belief is not generic but is centered on the specific act of God raising Jesus, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith.

who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead
This phrase encapsulates the core of the Christian Gospel: the resurrection of Jesus. The Greek verb "raised" (ἐγείραντα, egeiranta) signifies God's power and authority over life and death. The title "our Lord" (κύριος, kyrios) affirms the divinity and sovereignty of Jesus, a confession that was both a theological and political statement in the Roman Empire, where Caesar was often called "lord." The resurrection is the ultimate validation of Jesus' divine mission and the assurance of believers' future resurrection. Historically, the resurrection was a stumbling block for many, yet it remains the foundation of Christian hope and the ultimate demonstration of God's power and love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul is writing to the believers in Rome to explain the doctrine of justification by faith.

2. Abraham
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Abraham is the central figure in Romans 4, used as an example of faith credited as righteousness.

3. Jesus Christ
Referred to as "our Lord," Jesus is the one whom God raised from the dead, and belief in Him is the basis for righteousness being credited to believers.

4. God the Father
The one who raised Jesus from the dead, demonstrating His power and the fulfillment of His promises.

5. The Roman Church
The original recipients of the letter, consisting of both Jewish and Gentile believers, who are being taught about the righteousness that comes through faith.

Teaching Points

Faith and Righteousness
Just as Abraham's faith was credited as righteousness, so too is our faith in Jesus credited to us. This underscores the importance of faith in the Christian life.

The Power of the Resurrection
Belief in the resurrection is central to our faith. It is the evidence of God's power and the assurance of our own future resurrection.

The Universality of the Gospel
The message of righteousness by faith is for all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike, demonstrating the inclusivity of the Gospel.

Living by Faith
Our daily lives should reflect a trust in God similar to Abraham's, believing in His promises even when circumstances seem contrary.

Assurance of Salvation
Understanding that righteousness is credited to us through faith provides assurance of our salvation and encourages us to live confidently in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the example of Abraham's faith in Romans 4 encourage you in your own faith journey?

2. In what ways does the resurrection of Jesus impact your daily life and faith?

3. How can you apply the principle of righteousness by faith in your interactions with others, especially those who may not yet believe?

4. What are some practical steps you can take to strengthen your belief in God's promises, even when they seem delayed or impossible?

5. How does understanding the universality of the Gospel challenge you to share your faith with others, regardless of their background?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 15:6
This verse is foundational to understanding Romans 4, as it describes how Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness.

1 Corinthians 15:17
This passage emphasizes the importance of the resurrection in the Christian faith, connecting to the belief in God who raised Jesus from the dead.

Hebrews 11:6
Highlights the necessity of faith to please God, reinforcing the message of faith leading to righteousness.