In Romans chapter 3, the Apostle Paul explains that even though we are justified by faith, we must still uphold the Law. The gospel message does not do away with the Law. It is an extension of it. Paul wanted to emphasize to the Jews that the gospel was from the same God who gave them the Law in the Old Testament. In verses 1-3 of Romans 4, Paul explained that even Abraham was made righteous by faith, not his works. The world of grace was present even in Abraham’s time. We are all sinners, and we have nothing to boast about before God. Paul wanted to explain how God accepted us with his grace, even though we were not worthy. In verses 4-6, Paul explains that we should not think God grants us salvation based on our merits. In the parable of the vineyard, Christ explains that he dispenses his grace to everyone impartially. During the time of Jesus, the Jews thought they were more accepted by God because of their works. While it’s true that we should do good work and do our best to obey the word of God, we should not think that we can do anything to be more loved or accepted by God than we already are.

In the book of Philippians, Paul counted every accolade he gained in his past for nothing because of the knowledge of Jesus. In verses 7-8 of Romans 4, Paul explains that it is a blessing to have your sins forgiven by the Lord. Through the cross, all men can have their sins covered by the blood of Jesus. The works of the Law have no power to cover sins. Our sins were imputed to Christ, who paid the debt of all our sins. This is why we should not live thinking we cannot come before God due to our past. If we have faith in Christ to save us, our sins have been washed away. In verses 9-10, Paul explains that Abraham was counted righteous by his faith before he was circumcised. He wanted to let the Jews know circumcision was not required for salvation. If we are confined to the Law and our own works, it’s impossible to taste the goodness of God’s grace through salvation truly. Just like the Jews, we, too, can miss out on the love and grace of God. We receive God’s grace well, and then we will have new hearts that will keep God’s Law in our lives.