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Romans 4:4-5 meaning...

This reveals the relationship between faith and works in the context of salvation. Let's explore the meaning:

  • Works and Grace: 
The passage highlights the distinction between works and grace. It states that if salvation were based on works, it would not be considered a result of grace but rather a debt owed. In other words, if someone tries to earn their salvation through their own efforts, it ceases to be a gift of grace.
  • Faith and Justification: 
The verse emphasizes that salvation comes through faith, not works. It speaks of those who do not rely on their own works but instead believe in God, who justifies the ungodly. It is through faith in God's redemptive work that righteousness is credited to the believer.

The theological significance of Romans 4:4-5 lies in its clarification of the relationship between faith, works, and God's grace in the context of salvation.

These verses remind us that our salvation is not a result of our own efforts or merits. We cannot earn our way into a right standing with God through our works or good deeds. Rather, salvation is a gift of grace that is received through faith in Jesus Christ.


Practically, Romans 4:4-5 challenges us to reevaluate our understanding of salvation and the role of works in our relationship with God. It prompts us to shift our focus from relying on our own achievements to placing our faith in God's grace and the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross.

Furthermore, this passage emphasizes the unmerited nature of God's grace. It highlights that God justifies the ungodly, those who are undeserving of His favor. It prompts us to humbly acknowledge our own unrighteousness and dependence on God's mercy for salvation.

In our daily lives, Romans 4:4-5 encourages us to rest in the finished work of Christ and to trust in God's faithfulness. It reminds us that our righteousness is not based on our own works but on the righteousness credited to us through faith. It prompts us to live in the freedom and security of God's grace, knowing that our standing before Him is secure.

Additionally, this passage challenges us to extend grace to others. If our own salvation is based on grace and not works, we should also extend that same grace to those around us. It prompts us to cultivate a spirit of compassion and forgiveness, recognizing that we too have received forgiveness and undeserved favor from God.

In conclusion, Romans 4:4-5 emphasizes the distinction between works and grace in the context of salvation. It reminds us that our righteousness before God is not earned through our own efforts but received as a gift through faith. May we embrace the truth that salvation is a result of God's grace and put our trust in Him. Let us live in the freedom and security of God's grace, extending that same grace to others and magnifying His redemptive work in our lives.


Romans 4:4-5. To him who works, the reward is not counted as grace, but as something owed. But to him who doesn’t work, but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness.

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