Romans 4:1-5 is SO important. I've heard Calvinists say that even "faith" is a work because then it's something we're doing that causes us to "earn" salvation. But these verses contrast works and faith. Here, they are two distinct things. Faith is clearly not a work here.
Romans 4:9-12 shows that the blessing of the forgiveness and covering over of sins is not limited to the Jews, but also can be for the Gentile: for the circumcised and uncircumcised so long as they follow the footsteps of Abraham (simply believing God)
Romans 4:13-15 - the Law simply shows us how far we are from God's character. We're to aim to follow God (not become gods, as mormons would believe). "The Law brings about wrath" could mean that we feel the severity of how far we are from God. Being away from the beauty of God hurts us; it's painful. In this interpretation, THAT'S "wrath".
Romans 4:16-17 reiterates that grace is for all (something universalists hold to) and God "gives life to the dead and calls into being that which does not exist." Even if annihilationism were true, then God will even bring back that which was once considered unredeemable.
hmmm... things to ponder.
Romans 4:18-25 restates the beginning of this chapter.
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