Romans 4:23 – “The words ‘it was credited to him’ were written not for him alone.”

Extended Explanation

Paul has been talking about Abraham’s faith and how God counted him as righteous because he trusted in God’s promise. But now, in Romans 4:23, Paul makes an important point: Abraham’s story is not just about him—it’s about us too.

When Scripture says, “it was credited to him,” it isn’t just a historical statement about Abraham. It is a truth that applies to everyone who puts their faith in God. The same righteousness that was credited to Abraham can be credited to us.

This verse is setting up the next verse (Romans 4:24), where Paul will explain that we, too, can be declared righteous when we believe in Jesus Christ.

Paul wants his readers to understand that the principle of faith is universal. Just as Abraham was made right with God through faith, so are we. This verse teaches that the Bible’s message is not just for past generations—it is for all people in all times.

Historical Context

When Paul wrote this letter, many Jewish believers took pride in Abraham as their ancestor. They believed that being a descendant of Abraham made them special in God’s eyes. They also thought that following the Law of Moses was necessary for righteousness.

But Paul reminds them that Abraham was counted righteous long before the law even existed (Genesis 15:6). That means his righteousness had nothing to do with following religious rules—it was all about faith.

Paul also wanted the Gentiles (non-Jews) to understand that Abraham was not just the father of the Jewish people—he was the father of all who believe. Abraham’s faith set the pattern for salvation by faith for all people.

This was a radical idea at the time. It meant that anyone—Jew or Gentile—could be made right with God the same way Abraham was: by faith, not by works.

Theological Implications

This verse carries several important truths:

• The Bible was written for all generations. The story of Abraham is not just about history—it is about God’s plan for all believers.
• Righteousness by faith is not a new concept. Some people think faith-based salvation started in the New Testament, but Paul proves that it was always God’s plan.
• God’s promises apply to us today. Just as God credited righteousness to Abraham, He does the same for us when we believe in Jesus.
• Faith is the key to salvation. The same faith that saved Abraham is the faith that saves us today.

Paul is showing that the Bible is not just a record of past events—it is God’s message to every believer.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse highlights the continuing relevance of Scripture:

• “The words” – Paul is emphasizing that Scripture is intentional. Every word in the Bible has a purpose.
• “Were written not for him alone” – This phrase broadens the message, making it clear that Abraham’s story is an example for all believers.

This verse marks a transition in Paul’s argument. Up until now, he has been using Abraham’s faith to prove a point. But now, he shifts the focus to his readers—you and me—showing that what was true for Abraham is true for us.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Genesis 15:6 – “Abram believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.”
• Romans 15:4 – “For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us.”
• Galatians 3:7 – “Understand, then, that those who have faith are children of Abraham.”
• 2 Timothy 3:16 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”
• Hebrews 11:1 – “Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that the Bible is not just a history book—it is alive and speaks to us today.

For today’s believer, this means:

• The Old Testament still matters. Some people think the Old Testament is outdated, but Paul shows that it is still relevant today.
• God’s way of salvation has never changed. Righteousness has always come through faith, not through works or rituals.
• What God did for Abraham, He can do for us. If Abraham was made right with God through faith, then we can be too.
• Faith applies to all people. Whether you are religious or not, Jew or Gentile, salvation is available through faith in Christ.

This verse is an encouragement to trust in the promises of God, just like Abraham did.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse highlights God’s kindness and faithfulness:

• God’s love is for all people. The Bible’s promises are not just for one group—they are for everyone who believes.
• God does not change. The way He saved Abraham is the same way He saves people today—through faith.
• God wants us to know Him. He gave us His Word so that we could understand His plan for salvation.

This verse shows that God’s love is not limited to a select few—it is available to anyone who puts their trust in Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul is preparing to make the connection between Abraham’s faith and our faith in Jesus (which he does in the next verse).

• Just as Abraham was made righteous by faith, we are made righteous by faith in Jesus. (Romans 5:1)
• Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham. (Galatians 3:16)
• Faith in Christ is what saves us, just as faith in God’s promise saved Abraham. (Romans 10:9)
• Jesus’ death and resurrection confirm that God’s promises are true. (2 Corinthians 1:20)

Abraham’s faith looked forward to God’s promise. Our faith looks back to Jesus, the fulfillment of that promise.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach about the relevance of the Old Testament for believers today?
2. Why is it important that righteousness has always come by faith, even before Jesus came?
3. How does this verse encourage you to trust in God’s promises?
4. What does this verse say about God’s plan for salvation being for all people, not just one group?
5. How does Abraham’s example challenge you to have stronger faith in your daily life?

Romans 4:23 is a powerful reminder that the Bible is not just about the past—it is about God’s promises for today. Abraham’s faith is an example for all believers, showing that salvation has always been through faith, not by works. Just as Abraham trusted in God’s promise, we are called to trust in Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of that promise.