Romans 4:20
He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God;
Romans 4:20 (KJV)
Context
Romans 4:20 belongs to Paul’s explanation of Abraham’s faith in Romans 4. Paul wrote to believers in Rome, both Jews and Gentiles, to teach that righteousness comes through faith, not works. In this chapter, Paul shows that Abraham, the father of the Jewish people, was justified by faith, and that his faith was credited to him as righteousness (Romans 4:3).
In the immediate context, Romans 4:19 notes that Abraham considered his own body as good as dead and Sarah’s womb dead, yet he did not weaken in faith. Verse 20 then describes his response to God’s promise, which included a son in his old age and descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5).
Meaning
The phrase “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief” means Abraham was not shaken or agitated by doubt. The Greek word translated “staggered” conveys being moved or wavering. Despite the seeming impossibility of the promise, Abraham did not waver in unbelief.
“But was strong in faith” indicates that Abraham’s faith was not weak or vacillating. He remained resolute and steadfast in trusting God, even when circumstances made the promise appear impossible. His strength grew as he fixed his trust on God’s faithfulness.
“Giving glory to God” shows that Abraham’s faith was not self-centered. By firmly believing God’s promises, he honored God’s power, faithfulness, and sovereignty. His trust demonstrated that he was convinced God was worthy of implicit confidence.
Biblical connections
The following verse, Romans 4:21, clarifies the basis of Abraham’s faith: he was “fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.” Abraham’s faith rested on God’s power and faithfulness, not on human possibility.
There is no reason to stagger at God’s promises because they are made by Him who cannot lie, His faithfulness is engaged to perform them, and with Him all things are possible.
Application
Abraham’s example encourages believers to trust God’s promises even when they seem unlikely or beyond understanding. Just as Abraham believed God would fulfill His word, we can have confidence in God’s faithfulness.
Weakness of faith causes a person to dwell on difficulties and seeming impossibilities. Strong faith does not debate the obstacles but trusts the promiser. Abraham’s faith was “against hope” in human terms, yet he did not waver.
We should not allow doubts or circumstances to weaken our trust in God. Instead, we should remain steadfast, holding onto the belief that God will work things out according to His perfect plan. Our faith should not be solely for personal gain but should reflect our recognition of God’s power, faithfulness, and sovereignty.
Reflection
Romans 4:20 teaches that believers honor God when they trust His promises wholeheartedly, regardless of circumstances. Abraham’s unwavering faith brought glory to God by showcasing His ability to fulfill His word. We can glorify God by trusting Him wholeheartedly, knowing that He is trustworthy and able to fulfill His promises.
