Romans 4:21

"Yet, looking to the promise of God, he didn’t waver through unbelief, but grew strong through faith, giving glory to God,"

Key Reflection

In first-century Judaism, the promise of God often involved complex legalistic requirements that could lead to doubt and wavering. However, Abraham’s unwavering faith in God's promises, as highlighted in Romans 4:21, would have resonated with his contemporaries because it emphasized that true righteousness comes through faith rather than works. This verse underscores how trusting in God’s promise, despite the lack of visible evidence or immediate fulfillment, resulted not only in Abraham’s spiritual strength but also in the acknowledgment and praise of God's sovereignty and reliability.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 21. And being fully persuaded. Thoroughly or entirely convinced, Lu 1:1; Ro 14:5; 2 Ti 4:5,17. He was able. Comp. Ge 18:14. This was not the only time in which Abraham evinced this confidence. His faith was equally implicit and strong when he was commanded to sacrifice his promised son, Heb 11:19. {y} "also able to perform" Ge 18:14; Lu 1:37,45; Heb 11:19 __________________________________________________________________

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