Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Romans 4:13-25

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Romans 4:13-25

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Romans 4:13-25 within the framework of God's sovereign covenant of grace, understanding it as the Apostle Paul's exposition of justification by faith alone, not by works. This passage highlights the continuity of the covenant of grace from Abraham to Christ, demonstrating that the promise comes through faith, upheld by God's sovereign decree, not through the law. We see Abraham's faith as a prototype of the faith all believers are called to have — a faith that rests not on human effort but on God's promise fulfilled in Christ, the true Seed of Abraham.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the term 'λογίζεται' (logizetai) translated as 'counted' or 'credited' in verse 22, is central to our understanding of imputed righteousness, a key doctrine in Reformed theology. The verb underscores the forensic nature of justification, emphasizing that righteousness is reckoned to us by faith, not inherently ours. This aligns with our emphasis on sola fide — righteousness is imputed to us by God's grace through faith alone, without reliance on the law.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our Reformed interpretation of this passage differs from Roman Catholicism, which sees justification as a process involving both faith and works. We emphasize sola fide, where righteousness is imputed, not infused. Unlike Arminian perspectives that may stress human cooperation in faith, we assert that faith itself is a gift of God's sovereign grace, consistent with His eternal decree.

Pastoral Application

As Reformed pastors, we apply this text by assuring our congregations of the certainty of God's promises, rooted in His unchangeable covenant and sovereign grace. We encourage believers to emulate Abraham's faith, resting in the assurance that their justification is secure, not by their own efforts, but by faith in Christ alone. We remind our congregations that their faith, like Abraham's, is a response to God's call, effectually wrought by the Holy Spirit. This fosters a pastoral confidence that our salvation is anchored in the unshakeable foundation of God's eternal decree, leading us to live soli Deo gloria — to the glory of God alone.

Cross-References: Genesis 15:6; Galatians 3:6-9; Hebrews 11:8-12; James 2:23; Philippians 3:9

Doctrinal Connections: Justification by faith alone; The covenant of grace; Imputed righteousness; Sovereignty of God in salvation; The continuity of the covenant through redemptive history