Lesson 4: Justified by Grace Through Faith

Scripture

Romans 3:21–4:25 (read the entire passage in your Bible)

Big Idea

God declares sinners righteous through faith in Jesus Christ.

Before You Read

Recall the argument of the previous lesson before reading Romans 3:21–4:25. Notice repeated words, contrasts, Old Testament allusions, and every connection Paul makes between the gospel and Christian living.

Passage-by-Passage Exposition

3:21–26 | A righteousness from God

The great turn arrives with “But now.” God reveals righteousness apart from works of the law, witnessed by the Law and Prophets. All have sinned, yet those who believe are justified freely by grace through Christ’s redemption. Jesus’ atoning death demonstrates that God is both just and the justifier.

3:27–31 | Boasting excluded

Because justification is received by faith, no sinner can boast about deserving acceptance. The one God saves both Jews and Gentiles on the same basis. Faith does not make God’s law meaningless; it places the law in its proper role within God’s saving purpose.

4:1–25 | Abraham and David testify

Abraham was counted righteous through faith before circumcision. David describes the blessedness of forgiven sin. Abraham trusted the God who gives life and keeps His promises, and Paul connects that faith to those who believe in the God who raised Jesus from the dead.

Key Truths

• God declares sinners righteous through faith in Jesus Christ.

• Interpret every paragraph in the wider argument of Romans rather than as an isolated slogan.

• God’s saving initiative in Jesus Christ leads to humility, worship, and faithful obedience.

Digging Deeper

Trace Paul’s argument: What problem is he confronting? What does God accomplish? What response does the passage call for? Note the distinction between what God has done for believers and how believers are called to live. Where the passage raises debated questions, read the surrounding chapters before forming a conclusion.

What Do You Notice?

Underline two repeated or emphasized terms. Identify one statement about God and one about people. How does the paragraph connect to the preceding and following material?

Let’s Talk About It

1. What does “justified” mean in this passage?

2. Why must grace rule out boasting?

3. How do Abraham and David support Paul’s argument?

4. What is the relationship between Christ’s cross and God’s justice?

5. Where do you still try to earn what God gives freely?

Living It Out

When guilt or spiritual pride appears, return to Romans 3:23–26. Rest in Christ’s finished work rather than your record.

Personal Reflection

In your own words: What did I learn about the gospel? What belief, habit, fear, or relationship should change? Write one specific response and revisit it before the next lesson.

Prayer

Gracious God, thank You for declaring the ungodly righteous through faith in Jesus. Remove our boasting and anchor us in His cross. Amen.

MVM • Romans — The Gospel of God’s Grace • Scripture references only; no Bible translation text reproduced.