Bible Commentary

[Cometh] this blessedness then upon the circumcision [only,] or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 9. Cometh this blessedness, &c.] Here the reference to David’s words merges again into the main argument from Abraham’s case. This is indicated by the word “then.” The literal rendering of … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:9”

Blessed [is] the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 8. will not impute ] i.e. at any time of enquiry and judgment that may arise. They “shall not come into condemnation.” (Joh 5:24.) Fuente: The Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges Will not impute sin – On whom the Lord will not … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:8”

[Saying,] Blessed [are] they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 7. Blessed, &c.] The Gr. is verbatim from LXX. It is worth remarking that the words (in the Psalm) following this quotation (“and in whose spirit is no guile”) are in full accord with its application here. The “guile” there is evidently … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:7”

Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, 6. Even as David also ] In Psalms 32. This quotation is specially to the point, being not only an inspired statement of truth, but made by one who had been guilty of deep “ungodliness,” and had himself … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:6”

But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 5. to him that worketh not ] The Gr. implies a general statement; Abraham’s case in universal application. “ Worketh not: ” i.e., of course, in respect of justification. It is another form of the … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:5”

Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 4. to him that worketh, &c.] A general principle and fact, instanced here with special reference to human obedience to the Law of God. The terms of the Law are tacitly compared to a human contract, with definite pay for … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:4”

For what saith the Scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. 3. what saith the scripture? ] See on Rom 1:17. Abraham believed, &c.] Lit. But Abraham believed, &c. The particle is, perhaps, significant; emphasizing the verb. The Gr. is verbatim from LXX. of Gen 15:6, save that “ but … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:3”

For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath [whereof] to glory; but not before God. 2. For ] Q. d., “the question is asked, because if the answer is yes, Abraham stands in a position of independence before God.” by works ] Lit. out of works; in consequence of them. he hath ] “As … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:2”

What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? Ch. Rom 4:1-25. Abraham, an apparent exception to the rule of gratuitous acceptance, really the great example of it 1. What shall we say then? &c.] Here a new and independent objection is anticipated. Abraham, the great Head of … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 4:1”

Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law. 31. Do we then ] This verse stands very much by itself, a sort of brief paragraph. A serious objection (on the part of the Jew) is anticipated and strongly negatived; but the discussion of it is postponed. It … Continue reading “Exegetical and Hermeneutical Commentary of Romans 3:31”