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1
The Logic Against Boasting
Commentators explain that Paul uses a logical argument: If justification were earned by works, it would give a person reason to boast. However, Paul asserts that before God, who sees the heart perfectly, even a great figure like Abraham had no grounds for boasting. This proves that justification cannot be based on our actions.
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Book Overview
Romans
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Commentaries
10
Albert Barnes
On Romans 4:2
18th Century
Theologian
For if Abraham, etc. This is the answer of the apostle. If Abraham was justified on the ground of his own merits, he would have reason to …
AT Robertson
On Romans 4:2
The Scripture (η γραφη). Genesis 15:6.
Was justified by works (εξ εργων εδικαιωθη). Condition o…
Charles Ellicott
On Romans 4:2
19th Century
Bishop
We know that he obtained justification. If that justification had been earned by his own works, it would then have been something to be proud of; i…
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Charles Spurgeon
On Romans 4:1–3
19th Century
Preacher
What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof…
Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Romans 4:2
Paul now asks what Abraham had “discovered” about getting into right relation to God. In calling Abraham “our forefather,” he is not addressing Jew…
John Calvin
On Romans 4:2
16th Century
Theologian
For if Abraham, etc. This is an incomplete argument, which may be made in this form — “If Abraham was justified by works, he might justly …
John Gill
On Romans 4:2
17th Century
Pastor
For if Abraham were justified by works
That Abraham was not, and could not be justified by works, is clear from this…
Matthew Henry
On Romans 4:1–12
17th Century
Minister
To meet the views of the Jews, the apostle first refers to the example of Abraham, in whom the Jews gloried as their most renowned forefather. Howe…