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Daily Devotions

Romans

Romans 
Day 
Day 73

"The blessedness of the man to whom God imputes righteousness..."

Text: Romans 4:6

IS THERE A PLACE FOR “WORKS”?

It would be good if we were to attempt to look at the different ways in which Paul employed this word.

1. Does Paul teach that works will merit salvation?

The answer is plain and obvious. The answer is a straightforward “No”!

2. Is there any place for works at all?

This time the answer is “Yes”! (But not with reference to obtaining salvation).
a) Works display genuine faith.
b) Good works ought to be carefully maintained.

In Paul’s other epistles, he urged his readers to do good works. Two texts may be cited as proof that Paul believed in doing good works (but not with reference to salvation).

“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all,
especially to those who are of the household of faith”
Galatians 6:10

“This is a faithful saying, and these things I want you
to affirm constantly, that those who believe in God
should be careful to maintain good works. These things
are good and profitable to men.”
Titus 3:8

SIGNIFICANT SCRIPTURAL SUPPORT

Paul was very confident in his teaching of salvation by grace alone. His greatest strength lay in being able to appeal to Scriptural support.

“Just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom
God imputes righteousness apart from works.”
Romans 4:6

1. Abraham as an example

Paul cited Abraham’s example as one to whom God imputed righteousness. This part of his life was carefully and faithfully recorded in the Scriptures for good purposes!

2. David as another example

Paul now cited David as one who was a grateful recipient of God’s grace. David was not entirely blameless (nor Abraham for that matter). Nevertheless he received a special blessing from the Lord! Righteousness was imputed to him by God Himself. The redemption or salvation David received came about because of God’s grace, quite apart from good works.