Romans 4:12: And the father of circumcision to those who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of the faith which our father Abraham had while still uncircumcised.
The apostle had shown that God declares Jews and Gentiles righteous by their faith in Jesus. Paul demonstrated the unity and continuity of God’s plan by illustrations from Abraham and David. Paul showed that God declared Abraham righteous by faith, not by works or ritual or the law. 1
Sola fide (faith alone) is for everyone—Jew and Gentile! Abraham is the father of uncircumcised believers and the father of circumcised believers—not on the ground of circumcision but of faith. Through the solidarity of faith, Jews and Gentiles are brothers and sisters in Christ. 2
Application
- What new “step of faith” is God currently asking you to make, but you are struggling with the uncertainly of His request?
- What sign has He given to you to affirm His leading on this matter?
Prayer
Lord, thank you for giving me every measure of faith I need to trust you more. Even the faith I need to believe, comes from You. You supply all the grace and faith. It’s all You!
1. Dockery, D. S. (Ed.). (1998). Holman concise Bible commentary. Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.
2. Hughes, R. K. (1991). Romans: righteousness from heaven. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.