Romans Chapter 4

Hi Jennie!

- This chapter is all about Abraham. Here are some things that stuck out to me:
   - vs. 3 & 10: Good reminder that Abraham was credited with righteousness because of his faith (he believed God) even before he was circumcised. Circumcision was a sign of his faith and righteousness. Therefore, circumcision alone doesn't indicate righteousness. Kind of like how I could wear a wedding ring (the physical symbol) but not actually be married.
    - vs 7-8: Thank you Lord for forgiving our lawless deeds, covering our sin, and not taking it into account!
    - vs: 17: Abraham is the father of us all who believe and have faith. God, please give life to the dead places in our lives and call into being that which does not exist (like a job for my husband)  :)
   - vs 19-21 say "without becoming weak in faith ... he did not waiver in unbelief... assured that what God had promised, He was able also to perform" but I'm kind of like: uh, Paul, did you read the story of Abraham? Abraham slept with his wife's maid-servant because his wife, Sara, wanted to 'help God out' in fulfilling his promise of a son. So how can Paul say Abraham didn't waiver or become weak in faith?
   - vs 24: Jesus is Lord. If we believe in God, who raised Jesus from the dead, we are credited with righteousness as Abraham was
    - vs. 25: Jesus was delivered over to death to pay for our transgressions. Because he was God (perfect, sinless), he didn't have to die to pay for his own sins. He paid for ours in our place. And he rose as proof that the debt has been paid.