Turning a corner in Romans, Paul now addresses those who have been justified by faith. He begins this section by showing what believers have received in Christ by faith.

NOTE: I repeatedly said "14 years" but it was 24 years between Abraham's promise and the birth of Isaac.

Paul shows us the characteristics of Abraham's faith. He believed despite all the circumstances and his faith grew as it overcame obstacles. Paul applies this to salvation in Christ saying that "it was counted to him as righteousness" was not written for him alone but for we who have trusted in the gospel.

Paul continues to discuss Abraham and his justification. Paul shows from the OT that Abraham was not justified by any work, religious rite, or obedience to law. He was justified by grace alone through faith. This is the same way man is justified today, by grace through faith.

Paul proves the case that salvation has always been by faith. Paul uses the example of Abraham being justified by faith, and applies this to all mankind.

The Psalmist speaks of God's authority and the requirement God has set upon fallen man. Man must have clean hands and a pure heart to be accepted before God. Only the King of Glory, God and man fulfilled that role.

Paul exhorts the Philippians to live worthy of the gospel of Christ. He explains "worthy" by showing that it means to stand unified in the body, strive together for the faith, be fearless against opposition, and be ready to suffer for Christ's sake

Jesus sends out the 72 and gives them a commission to be laborers among his harvest. The same call and instructions are given for believers today.

Paul has just introduced the righteousness of God by faith in Jesus. He has shown that salvation is apart from the law by the propitiation of Jesus. Because this is true, some other things must also be true in our lives.

After 2 chapters showing the accountability and condemnation of man for sin, Paul turns the corner and shows the gift of righteousness. God gives those who trust in Jesus His own righteousness and demonstrates his justice in pouring out wrath at the cross.

The testimony has been heard and the judge steps forward to render His verdict. First, Paul addresses some objections to the arguments he has presented, then pronounces God's verdict on all mankind