Romans 4:14

"For the promise to Abraham and to his offspring that he would be heir of the world wasn’t through the law, but through the righteousness of faith."

Key Reflection

This verse emphasizes that God's promise to Abraham and his descendants was not contingent upon adherence to the law but rather on a righteous faith in God. It underscores that salvation and inheritance are gifts of grace, accessible through belief alone, challenging the legalistic approach prevalent among Jews at the time.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 14. For if they which are of the law. Who seek for justification and acceptance by the law. Faith is made void. Faith would have no place in the scheme; and consequently the strong commendations bestowed on the faith of Abraham, would be bestowed without any just cause. If men are justified by the law, they cannot be by faith, and faith would be useless in this work. And the promise, etc. A promise looks to the future. Its design and tendency is to excite trust and confidence in him who makes it.

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