Romans 4:13-17
New International Version
13 It was not through the law that Abraham and his offspring received the promise that he would be heir of the world, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. 14 For if those who depend on the law are heirs, faith means nothing and the promise is worthless, 15 because the law brings wrath. And where there is no law there is no transgression. 16 Therefore, the promise comes by faith, so that it may be by grace and may be guaranteed to all Abraham’s offspring—not only to those who are of the law but also to those who have the faith of Abraham. He is the father of us all. 17 As it is written: “I have made you a father of many nations.”[a] He is our father in the sight of God, in whom he believed—the God who gives life to the dead and calls into being things that were not.
Friday - November 5
To further solidify his argument, Paul brings up the story of Abraham, the “father of the faith.” In Genesis 12, God made Abe a promise of land, offspring, and blessing. But Abe was about 75 and his wife 65. Over 20 years passed when God made that promise, but still no kids! But God reaffirmed that promise in Genesis 15 and Abraham believed God and his faith was “counted to him as righteousness.” (Gen. 15:6). From the beginning God has been making promises and from the beginning God has been calling us to live by faith in HIS righteousness, justice, truth, and faithfulness. When God makes a promise He “gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.” (Rom. 4:17). You are dead. God’s promise is your life!