SCRIPTURE: Romans (NIV) 4:1 What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter? 2 If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about—but not before God.
3 What does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” 4 Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation. 5 However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.
OBSERVATION: The matter before us is the relationship of faith and/or works to salvation. Which one brings us salvation? The Jews put a great emphasis on keeping the Law of Moses. It was important to them how well they DID in keeping the law. Since they could not keep it perfectly, they ended up taking pride in at least doing it better than anyone else. Surely God would be impressed with their efforts; they were impressed!
Here the writer of Romans bypasses Moses and goes even further back to Abraham. Moses gave them the Law, but Abraham was their father! It all began with Abraham. In their consideration of Moses, the emphasis was on the work of keeping the Law. But what did Abraham discover about his relationship with God, since he did not have the Law of Moses?
APPLICATION: How was Abraham able to be the “friend of God?” How did Abraham become the father of the nation, he who had no children of his own? It was simply by faith. Abraham believed. He believed what God said.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I do not have faith in my works for my salvation, but in the completed work of Jesus! Without sin, He died for my sin; now I enjoy justification. Amen
If you have never made Jesus your Lord, pray with me: Lord, I confess that I have sinned and ask your forgiveness. Come live in my life as my Lord. Make my life your home. Amen.
Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!
On Facebook: Today’s SOAP from Pastor Leon
SOAPs by Pastor Leon 