What does Romans 4:22 mean?

Explanation

The verse Romans 4:22 reads, "And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness." This verse is referring to Abraham and how his faith in God was accounted to him as righteousness.

Imputed here means to be credited or reckoned.

Righteousness in this context is the state of being morally right or justifiable in the eyes of God.

The verse carries a deeper meaning beyond its literal sense; it speaks to the concept of faith being the basis upon which individuals are made right with God, rather than through their own works or adherence to the law.

Historical Context

Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around 56-58 AD while he was in Corinth.

The epistle was addressed to the church in Rome, which was comprised of both Jewish and Gentile Christians.

At this time, there was a significant theological debate regarding the role of Jewish law and traditions in salvation and how it related to the emerging Christian faith.

Paul uses the example of Abraham, a significant figure in Judaism, to illustrate that righteousness comes through faith, a concept that underpins Christian theology and is integral to understanding Paul's message of grace.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints focus on the concept of imputed righteousness.

From a Reformed or Calvinist approach, this verse is key to the doctrine of justification by faith alone, affirming that it is only through faith in Christ that a person is declared righteous before God.

Arminianism, while agreeing on the importance of faith, emphasizes the role of human free will in choosing to have faith.

Catholic theology acknowledges the role of faith in justification but includes a cooperative aspect through sanctifying grace.

All these perspectives hold that Abraham's experience serves as a precursor to the Christian experience of salvation.

Practical Applications

The teachings of Romans 4:22 can be applied in modern life by encouraging individuals to trust in God's promises and provisions rather than attempting to earn favor or righteousness through their own efforts.

It promotes a relationship with God that is based on faith and acceptance of God's grace.

This verse can also encourage inclusion and unity within diverse Christian communities by affirming a common foundation of faith rather than cultural or ritualistic practices.

Cross-References

• Genesis 15:6: "And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness."
• Romans 3:28: "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law."
• Galatians 3:6: "Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness."
• 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."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:

• "ἐλογίσθη" (elogisthē): Translated as "it was imputed," from the Greek word "λογίζομαι," meaning to consider, count, or reckon.
• "δικαιοσύνη" (dikaiosynē): Translated as "righteousness," referring to the character or quality of being right or just.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of reckoning faith as righteousness is predominantly a Judeo-Christian principle.

In contrast, other ancient religions and myths often emphasized works and offerings to the gods to achieve favor or righteousness.

Ancient Greek and Roman mythologies focused on pleasing the gods through sacrifices and heroic deeds, whereas the Hebrew concept of righteousness was more relational, focusing on trust and obedience to Yahweh.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern scientific understanding does not directly intersect with the theological concepts in Romans 4:22; justification by faith is a religious belief and not subject to empirical or scientific validation.

Nonetheless, the study of psychology and human behavior can provide insights into how beliefs and faith impact an individual's life, potentially offering understanding on the benefits of faith-based practices on mental and emotional well-being.

commentaries

Various biblical commentaries offer insights into Romans 4:22:

• The Matthew Henry Commentary asserts that Abraham's faith, which was strong in the face of human impossibility, was the ground of his justification.
• The Pulpit Commentary discusses how Paul uses the case of Abraham to show that justification has always, even under the old covenant, been by faith.
• John Calvin's Commentary on Romans notes that faith was imputed for righteousness to Abraham, not because it was a meritorious work, but because it was a means of receiving the righteousness of God.