Not Through The Law

For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith. For if those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made void and the promise made of no effect…. 

Romans 4:13-14 

Abraham is a foundational character. From Abraham has grown the three predominant religions, Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. All three claim him in some capacity. As Paul is presenting justification by faith to Gentiles, he refers to Abraham and discusses the rite of circumcision, which is integral to Judaism. He discusses the fact that Abraham’s justification from God preceded his submission to the rite of circumcision. Therefore, he was not justified on the basis of his adherence to the law. Paul refers to him as, ‘the father of all those who believe.’ Paul reveals where he is going with this line of reasoning when he articulates the words of our text. Thus, he removes from the law-keepers the idea that their law keeping is what makes them acceptable to God. He stands foursquare upon the foundation that righteousness is through faith. This will be the ground upon which he stands forever. It will lead him inevitably to preach Christ and Him crucified. Thus, Paul continues to proclaim Christ as the only Way through whom anyone, circumcised or uncircumcised can be acceptable to God. This is why it so imperative that we hold Christ up before all, both Jews and Gentiles.  

Our Sovereign God of Grace, 
we rejoice at the ancient examples You have shown us. 
We praise You that Abraham, our father,  
was justified by faith, and so are we. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning