What does Romans 4:3 mean?

Explanation

Romans 4:3 refers to an event recorded in Genesis 15:6, where Abram (later named Abraham) is credited with righteousness because of his faith. The Apostle Paul uses this Old Testament example to illustrate that righteousness before God is a matter of faith, not of adherence to the Law.

This verse underscores the foundational Christian doctrine of justification by faith, implying that right standing with God is granted on the basis of trust in Him and His promises, rather than by human merit or works.

Historical Context

The Book of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around AD 56-58.

During this period, there was a theological debate about the role of Jewish law in the salvation of both Jews and Gentiles.

Paul wrote to the Romans at a time when the early Christian church was expanding among Gentile (non-Jewish) populations, leading to tension between those who believed adherence to the Jewish law was necessary for salvation and those who did not.

Paul uses Abraham, a revered patriarch in Judaism, to show that faith has always been the basis for righteousness, even before the Law of Moses was given.

Theological Insights

From a Protestant perspective, this verse is often cited in discussions of Sola Fide, which means "faith alone." This doctrine asserts that faith in Jesus Christ is sufficient for salvation and that good works are not a means to gain salvation, although they are a natural result of genuine faith.

Catholic theology also values the importance of faith for justification but emphasizes that faith must be "faith working through love," implying that works, while not the cause of justification, are still necessary as a fruit of faith.

Eastern Orthodox Christians put a strong emphasis on the process of theosis (deification), where faith is the beginning of a journey towards union with God, involving both trust in God and active participation in holiness.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied to daily life by reinforcing the belief that individuals cannot earn salvation through their actions; rather, they should place their faith in God's promises and His grace.

It challenges believers to trust in God's plan and to seek a relationship with Him that is based on faith.

It also invites reflection on the nature of true faith and encourages believers not to rely on their own moral achievements for their sense of righteousness.

Cross-References

• Genesis 15:6 - "And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness."
• 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."
• Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."

Language Study

The key term in Romans 4:3 is "counted" (Greek: λογίζομαι, logizomai), which can be translated as "credited" or "reckoned." It signifies an accounting term, meaning to consider or calculate. In this context, Abraham's belief or faith in God was "counted" or credited to him as righteousness.

The term suggests a transfer or imputation of righteousness, not based on Abraham's works, but on his belief in God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions and myths, righteousness or favor with the gods often depended on actions, rituals, or moral achievements.

The emphasis on faith as a basis for righteousness in the Abrahamic traditions was somewhat distinct compared to the notions prevailing in many other ancient cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

While the nature of faith and righteousness does not fall directly within the purview of scientific inquiry, the psychological study of belief and its effects on human behavior could be relevant.

For instance, studies in psychology may investigate how holding faith affects an individual's mental health and moral decisions.

However, the determination of whether faith itself can be 'credited' as righteousness would be beyond the scope of science, as it is inherently a theological and philosophical question.

Commentaries

Many biblical scholars and theologians have offered insights on Romans 4:3:

• Martin Luther, the leader of the Protestant Reformation, emphasized that this verse showcased the doctrine of justification by faith alone and the imputed righteousness of Christ to the believer.

• John Calvin commented on the gratuitous nature of God's imputation of righteousness, highlighting that Abraham's faith was not a work but was equivalent to an open hand receiving God's free gift.

• Contemporary theologians, such as N.T.

Wright, have revisited the interpretation of 'righteousness' in Pauline texts.

Wright suggests that 'righteousness' involves both legal acquittal and the idea of being part of God's covenant family.

He highlights the covenantal aspect of Abraham's faith as being key to understanding Paul's argument.

• Roman Catholic commentaries often integrate the notion of faith with an intrinsic call to express that faith through love and good works, aligning with the Catholic understanding of faith and works being complementary.