Romans 4:10

“How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.”

To understand the meaning of this verse, it’s helpful to examine the context in which it appears. The book of Romans, written by the Apostle Paul, addresses the theological foundations of the Christian faith and the relationship between faith and works. In chapter 4, Paul focuses on the example of Abraham to illustrate his points.

In Romans 4, Paul argues that Abraham was justified by faith and not by works. He emphasizes that it was Abraham’s faith in God that was credited to him as righteousness, not any outward works or religious rituals like circumcision. Paul presents Abraham as the spiritual father of all who believe in God, both circumcised (Jews) and uncircumcised (Gentiles).

In verse 10, Paul raises the question of when Abraham’s faith was reckoned as righteousness. He asks whether it was when Abraham was circumcised or before circumcision when he was still uncircumcised. Paul then provides the answer by stating, “Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.” In other words, Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness before he was circumcised.

Paul’s point is significant because circumcision was considered a crucial sign of the covenant between God and the Jewish people. However, Paul argues that Abraham’s justification, or being declared righteous by God, came through faith alone and not through any external ritual or observance.

This verse underscores the importance of faith in the Christian understanding of salvation. It emphasizes that our relationship with God is not based on external markers or religious rituals but on a personal, living faith in Jesus Christ. Just as Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness, believers are also justified by faith in Jesus, who fulfilled the requirements of the law and offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins.