Romans 4:9-12, Walking in the Steps of Faith

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Romans 4:9-12 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: 12 And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised.

For the Jews, God meant circumcision to be an outward sign of an inward faith. It was an external manifestation of the faith that is in the heart. An evidence of the change that this is a people belonging to the living God of heaven. In the New Testament, water baptism has replaced circumcision as the outward affirmation of an inward faith.

Whether Jew or Gentile, circumcision or uncircumcision, we are saved by faith in Jesus Christ. This is the blessedness that the Apostle Paul was speaking about. He cited Abraham and David’s example to bring home the truth that the Old Testament saints were saved also by faith in Jesus Christ.

God is very consistent in His approach to man’s salvation. The way is through Jesus Christ. The Old Testament pointed to this truth. Jesus declared this truth to Thomas, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6) 

This is the blessedness that the Apostle Paul has bidden us walk therein – in the steps of faith! This way is safe, secure and sure. Abraham by his life showed us the blessedness of the walk of faith.

Hebrews 11:8-10 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. 9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: 10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. 

Hebrews 11:16 But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city. 

The ultimate blessedness of this righteousness through faith is the prospect of eternal life in heaven. Although testings and trials befell Abraham in his earthly sojourn, he was be to safely navigate through in the steps of faith. God bless your day. Amen.