God's Gift to Abraham

This tenth message from Romans reveals God's gift to Abraham. RIGHTEOUSNESS was given to Abraham freely, as a gift - no strings attached. There was no place for boasting because Abraham did nothing for his justification. Though some assume that he was justified by works, in actuality he simply believed God, and righteousness was reckoned to his personal account. David also talks about being saved in the same way - not as an expected wage, what was owed him, but justified by faith when he was ungodly. He is an example of those who are blessed by having their sins forgiven and covered, and not taken into account by God. RECONCILIATION is the gift of salvation that God freely gives to men. The rite of circumcision has nothing to do with salvation - we realize from this passage that Abraham was saved before being circumcised - his faith was reckoned as righteousness. Abraham received a sign (outward mark) of circumcision as a seal (inward mark) of his faith - this proved his righteousness as he submitted to God. The purpose of his circumcision was that he might be: (1) the father of all who believe without being circumcised (Gentiles); and (2) the father of circumcision (Jews) - specifically those Jews who follow in his steps of the faith, walking in real faith.