But the words ‘it was counted to him’ were not written for his sake alone, but for ours also. It will be counted to us who believe in him…
– Romans 4:23-24a
When Paul quotes Genesis 15:6 — “it was counted to him as righteousness” — he immediately tells us that this was not written only for Abraham’s sake, but for ours also. Abraham’s experience becomes a template for every believer. The righteousness counted to him will also be counted to us, if we believe. In other words, we’re not reading ancient biography; we’re reading personal invitation. The verse is not just telling us what happened; it’s telling us what happens — right now, to everyone who trusts in God’s saving promise.
Justification by faith, then, must never remain a theory we espouse, or a doctrine we file under “important truths.” It is a truth to be embraced, a gift to be received, and a reality to be lived in. The same God who counted Abraham righteous invites us into the same standing — not because of who we are, but because of whom we trust. This is not just ancient theology; it is present-tense hope. What was true for Abraham can be true for us. Justification is for all who place their faith in the God who saves.
Prayer
Lord, thank You that Your Word was written not only to inform but to invite. Help me not just to study justification by faith, but to live in its freedom and assurance every day.
Meditation
Has justification by faith become just a doctrine I understand, or is it a reality I live by in dependence and confidence?