Romans 4:5, AMPC

But to one who, not working [by the Law], trusts (believes fully) in Him Who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited to him as righteousness (the standing acceptable to God)."

Romans 4:5, AMPC

The Apostle Paul, once a strict adherent to the Law, discovered that his efforts to achieve righteousness through works ultimately led him to stand against God.

As Paul explains, if Abraham was justified by following the Law, he would have reason to boast about his own righteousness. However, Paul emphasizes that no one is justified by the works of the Law, but rather through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

In this verse, Paul reiterates that justification comes solely through trust in Christ. Therefore, trusting in Christ becomes the focal point of every believer's life.

The good works that believers exhibit today are merely an expression of what Christ has deposited in us, demonstrated through our character, words, and actions.

The Law had to be fulfilled, but it is beyond human ability to accomplish it. Thankfully, God sent Jesus, a sinless man, to fulfill the Law and die for the punishment of sin on behalf of all humanity. To truly honour and worship Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, we are to trust in His finished work.

If we attempt to live by the Law, we are essentially discarding His sacrifice and works. However, if we love Jesus and live in the benefits He has secured for us, we will be living as those who are pleasing to our Father in heaven.

We cannot mix the works of the Law with the works of Christ; it is like sitting on the fence, being neither hot nor cold, and we know where that will ultimately lead.

Let us trust Christ, who has fulfilled the requirements of the Law.

Let us trust in His Word, and live as citizens of His kingdom.

Blessings,

Ps Ambrose