What does Romans 4:6 mean?

Explanation

Romans 4:6 speaks of the blessing that comes from being considered righteous by God, not because of our works or actions, but because of faith.

This verse, as with the broader argument in the chapter, references the faith of Abraham and draws a parallel to the Christian understanding of faith and righteousness.

The apostle Paul uses King David, a key figure in Jewish history, as another example of this principle.

He is emphasizing that the righteousness that comes from God does not depend on human effort but is credited to individuals as a gracious gift.

This idea supports the foundational Christian belief in salvation through faith rather than through adherence to the law.

The phrase "imputeth righteousness" refers to God's act of graciously regarding believers as righteous on the basis of their faith, not on their ability to uphold the law.

Essentially, it is a legal declaration by God concerning the believer's status.

This concept is central to the doctrine of justification by faith, where one is made right with God purely through belief in Jesus Christ as one's savior.

Historical Context

Romans was written by Paul around 57 AD to the church in Rome, which comprised both Jewish and Gentile believers.

In the historical context, there was a significant theological debate over the role of Jewish law (Torah) in the salvation of both Jewish and Gentile Christians.

Paul's teaching in Romans sought to address these issues by explaining that righteousness before God is granted through faith, following the example of Abraham, who believed God and was therefore credited with righteousness long before the Mosaic Law was given.

Paul used the psalms of David to make his point because David was a revered king and a spiritual ancestor to both Jews and early Christians.

David's words in Psalm 32 (which Paul references) carry weight as they illustrate the blessedness of forgiveness and imputed righteousness apart from the works of the law.

Theological Insights

From a Reformed perspective, this verse demonstrates the doctrine of sola fide, or faith alone, which was a cornerstone of Protestant Reformation theology. It underscores the belief that humans can't earn salvation through works, but rather it is a gift from God received through faith.

Catholic theology would also recognize the importance of faith for righteousness but would place a greater emphasis on the role of God's grace leading to a transformative process that includes works as a response to faith, referring to the doctrine of 'faith working through love.'

Some modern Christian thinkers emphasize the relational aspect of this verse, suggesting that "imputing righteousness" is about being in right relation to God through trust and reliance, more than a legal declaration of innocence.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of Romans 4:6 focus on how Christians view their relationship with God and actions. Since righteousness is not earned by works, believers are encouraged to approach God with humility and faith rather than self-reliance.

This verse also inspires confidence and assurance among Christians, knowing their standing with God doesn't fluctuate based on their performance.

Additionally, it encourages a non-judgmental attitude towards others, recognizing that righteousness is a gift from God rather than an achievement. It challenges believers to live out their faith in gratitude and to do good works out of love rather than obligation.

Cross-References

• Romans 3:22 - "Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:"
• 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."
• Psalm 32:1-2 - "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.

Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile."

• 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

Key terms in the original Greek of Romans 4:6 include:

• "David" (Δαυὶδ): the name of the second king of Israel, an enduring symbol of a man after God's own heart.
• "Blessedness" (μακαριότητα): a state of being favored or receiving good fortune.

It refers to a deep joy or fulfillment that comes from God.

• "Imputeth" (λογίζεται): this verb, from the root "λογίζομαι", means to account, reckon, or consider.

In theological terms, it refers to God attributing righteousness to someone by his decision.

• "Righteousness" (δικαιοσύνην): the quality or state of being righteous, often associated with justice or uprightness.
• "Without works" (χωρὶς ἔργων): an expression indicating an absence of works or deeds as a basis for God's impartation of righteousness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient Near Eastern cultures, many societies had the concept of kings or individuals being chosen by the gods and imbued with a form of righteousness or favor.

However, the Jewish-Christian concept stood out in positing that righteousness comes from a personal God directly to an individual, not through rituals or societal status.

Comparatively, religious systems with karmic beliefs, such as Hinduism and Buddhism, hold that one's actions (works) significantly determine one's future state or rebirth, which contrasts with the Pauline doctrine of righteousness apart from works.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives do not typically intersect directly with theological concepts such as righteousness.

However, psychology and sociology might engage with the implications of these beliefs on human behavior and the functioning of communities.

For instance, the idea that people are more likely to act ethically when they are not burdened by guilt and are assured of unconditional acceptance could be explored within psychological studies on moral behavior and motivation.

Commentaries

• John Calvin comments on this verse saying that it demonstrates how righteousness is credited to us by faith because faith receives that righteousness which the Gospel offers.
• The Pulpit Commentary emphasizes that Paul shows the universality of this doctrine of righteousness by faith by citing David, a great figure in Israel's history, who himself acknowledged the blessedness of man to whom God imputes righteousness without works.
• Matthew Henry's Commentary notes the comfort found in this verse, suggesting that forgiveness of sins and acceptance with God are the source of true blessedness, not worldly successes or achievements.