Pondering the Bible

Faith vs. Works: The Abraham Debate Romans 4:1–12

Ponder GMC Season 18 Episode 9

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Romans 4:1–12—Abraham, David, and Salvation by Faith Apart from Works
 Ken Corkins and pastor Rocky Ellison continue their Romans study (Season 18, Episode 9) by beginning Romans 4:1–12 in the RSV, where Paul answers objections to justification by faith by using Abraham and David as biblical proof. They explain that Genesis says Abraham “believed God” and righteousness was “reckoned” to him, meaning salvation is a gift of grace rather than earned wages, and Psalm 32 shows this reckoning involves sins not being counted against a person. Paul also argues the blessing applies to uncircumcised as well as circumcised because Abraham was counted righteous before circumcision, which later served as a sign or seal. Abraham’s faith preceded his works, and this supports welcoming Gentile believers and promoting unity in the Roman church.
 00:00 Welcome and Setup
 00:17 Romans Four Reading
 02:28 Faith Not Works
 03:34 Why Abraham Matters
 05:58 Credited Righteousness
 09:27 Gift Not Wages
 11:35 David on Forgiveness
 14:52 Circumcision and Gentiles
 18:51 Faith Produces Works
 21:44 Unity and Closing

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Music performed by the Ponder GMC worship team.

Cover Art: Joe Wagner

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