Summary

In this sermon, Dr. Michael Easley unpacks Romans 4. This chapter centers on Abraham, the patriarch of Israel, to illustrate Paul’s central argument: justification comes by faith alone, not by works or adherence to the law. Paul draws from Genesis 15:6, where Abraham “believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” The Jewish audience highly esteemed Abraham’s obedience, but Paul reframes their understanding—Abraham’s righteousness was not earned; it was imputed by God’s grace. This chapter unpacks the Abrahamic covenant and demonstrates how God’s promises extend beyond Israel to bless all nations. 

Through Abraham’s example, Paul builds a defense for justification by faith, culminating in the Reformers’ essential word: alone. Michael Easley reminds us that nothing we do—no obedience, no good works—can earn God’s favor. Likewise, our sins are no longer credited to us but placed on Christ, whose righteousness is given to us. The miracle of forgiveness should never grow stale; it transforms how we see ourselves and how God sees us—in Christ, righteous and redeemed. Romans 4 calls us to rest in this grace, boasting not in ourselves, but in God’s provision through Jesus Christ.

Takeaways:

Romans 4 uses Abraham’s life to explain justification by faith alone.

Abraham’s righteousness was imputed, not earned by obedience or works.

The Abrahamic covenant points to God’s plan to bless all nations through Christ.

Paul contrasts Jewish views of merit with God’s grace credited through faith.

Our sins are not counted against us; Christ’s righteousness is credited to us.

Forgiveness is a miracle we must never take for granted.

To read the book of Romans, click here.

Click here for other Michael Easley Sermons.