Session 4

Chapter 4: The Example of Abraham

From Romans Study

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The One Thing: Faith is not a new concept. God has always counted people as righteous based on their trust in Him.

Intro

Chapter 3 gave us the incredible news that we are justified by faith alone, separate from the works of the law. We saw that the "scales" of God’s justice were balanced not by our effort, but by the sacrifice of Jesus. This leveled the ground for everyone. Everyone, Jew and Gentile alike, comes to God through one way: faith in Jesus.

You might wonder if the idea of "faith alone" was new for the church. But in Chapter 4, Paul proves it has always been God’s plan. By looking back at the life of Abraham, a father of the faith, Paul shows that righteousness was credited to him centuries before the law was even given. As you read this week, look for the bridge Paul builds between Abraham’s ancient trust and our modern faith. You will discover how God’s promises are guaranteed to all who, like Abraham, place their hope in the power of God.

Study Questions

1. Look at Romans 4:16 and Ephesians 2:8-9. How do these verses connect the concepts of faith and grace?
2. Why does Paul use Abraham as his primary example of being "counted as righteous"? (See Genesis 15:6)
3. Read verses 4-5. Explain the difference between a "wage" and a "gift".
4. Paul quotes King David in verses 7-8. How does David describe the blessing of the person whose sins are covered?
5. According to verses 10-11, was Abraham counted righteous before or after he was circumcised? Why is this timing so important to Paul’s argument?
6. What are some real-life examples of faith you have seen in others? In yourself?
7. Is there something you are currently struggling to believe or trust God to do? How do verses 3 and 18 encourage you to believe again?
8. Complete this sentence: "I want faith like ________." What about that person makes them a great example of faith?
9. Read verse 18. What does it look like to “hope against hope" in your current circumstances? Or, how might you encourage someone in need of hope?

Using Abraham as an example, Paul shows that faith is not something we do in order to earn God’s favor. Instead, faith is like a bridge over a canyon. It is the total reliance on God’s character and promises, even when our circumstances make each step feel uncertain.

Discussion Questions

1. Activity: Pair up in groups of two and have each person take two minutes or less to explain this foundational doctrine out loud: “We are justified by faith in Jesus Christ.” 
2. Describe a time when you stepped out in faith without knowing the outcome. What did you learn about God’s character in that season?
3. The video uses a bridge analogy. What does it look like to take a step of faith when the outcome isn’t guaranteed?
4. Abraham was "counted righteous" before he followed any religious rituals or laws. Why is that distinction vital for us today?
5. How can we find hope in the fact that Abraham had doubts but still "grew strong in his faith"?
6. Reflect on your study this week. Are there any specific questions you want to discuss or insights you would like to share?