What does Romans 4:20 mean?

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He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; Romans 4:20

Explanation

The verse Romans 4:20 speaks of the patriarch Abraham and his unwavering faith in God’s promise to him. The verse highlights that Abraham did not doubt the promise of having a son, despite his very old age and that of his wife, Sarah. Instead, Abraham’s faith was “strong,” and he praised God in anticipation of the fulfillment of God’s promise. The phrase “staggered not” translates to him not hesitating or being skeptical about God’s capacity to do what had been promised. His strong faith was tantamount to giving glory to God because it demonstrated his trust and reverence for God’s power and faithfulness.

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Historical Context

Romans, a letter written by the Apostle Paul, was likely composed between 55 and 58 A.D. Paul wrote to the believers in Rome to educate and unify them in their faith. In chapter 4, Paul refers to the Genesis account of Abraham, whose story is foundational for both Jewish and Christian traditions. He uses Abraham’s example to explain justification by faith and not by works or adherence to the law, which was a significant shift from Jewish customs of the time.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse underscores the concept of ‘justification by faith,’ a key principle in Christian doctrine. It implies that faith itself, and not the fulfillment of legalistic requirements, is what makes someone righteous before God. It is also an illustration of ‘sola fide’, the belief that faith alone is sufficient for salvation. This perspective is commonly held in Lutheran and other Protestant traditions but varies from the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox view, which considers faith without works as insufficient for salvation.

Practical Applications

On a practical level, Romans 4:20 encourages believers to maintain faith in God’s promises, even when circumstances make them seem impossible. It suggests that strong faith honors God and that trust in God’s word can provide believers with fortitude in challenging situations. The verse serves as a reminder to not succumb to skepticism but to constantly nurture a faith that is steadfast and confident.

Cross-References

Hebrews 11:11 – “Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised.”
James 2:23 – “And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.”
Romans 4:18 – “Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations, according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the term translated as “staggered not” is “οὐ διεκρίθη” (ou diekrithē), which conveys the meaning of not doubting or disputing. The word “strong” is translated from “ἐνεδυναμώθη” (enedunamōthē), referring to being empowered or fortified in faith. “Giving glory to God” is from “δόξαν ἔδωκεν τῷ Θεῷ” (doxan edōken tō Theō), indicating that Abraham’s faith act was an act of worship, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and faithfulness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The enduring faith in divine promises without empirical evidence has parallels in many religious traditions. For instance, in Hinduism, the idea of unwavering faith or “Shraddha” in the gods and the scriptures is highly emphasized. Similarly, in Islamic literature, the story of Abraham and his faith in Allah’s promises also plays a crucial role.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychological studies on faith and belief systems might suggest that having faith could contribute positively to an individual’s mental health by providing a coping mechanism during stressful times. However, from a strictly scientific standpoint, faith in the miraculous (like the birth of a child to a nonagenarian couple) is not supported by empirical evidence and remains a matter of personal belief.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse often emphasize Abraham’s exemplary faith as a model for believers. For example, the Matthew Henry Commentary notes that Abraham’s faith “did not fail” and he was “strong in faith.” Similarly, John Calvin remarks on the unshakeable nature of Abraham’s trust in God’s promises. Both commentaries see Abraham’s faith as pointing towards the righteousness that comes by faith and not by the law. Many biblical scholars also use this verse to discuss the interplay between divine omnipotence and human faith.