The reason Paul is riveted here on this truth of justification by faith alone. apart from works, is because it opens the door of salvation to all the

peoples of the world,

whether they're Jews or not.

Why is the doctrine of justification by faith so foundational to Christianity?

In this episode of Light and Truth,

John Piper examines Romans 4, 9 to 12, to reveal the treasure of good news found in this doctrine.

The sermon was originally preached at Bethlehem Baptist Church on August 22nd, 1999.

Paul is riveted here on this truth

because he wants us to see and get right the proper place of works and obedience in the Christian life in relation to justification. Justification, getting right with God by faith alone, apart

from works. Undercuts, boasting, gets a blessing, glorifies God.

Well, what then about works?

What about obedience?

What about circumcision?

What about the other things that the law has to teach us?

And in this text, Paul now, in verse 11 draws out a proper positioning of works in relation to those things.

How does he do it? Let's read it.

Verse 11.

Abraham received the sign of circumcision,

a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while uncircumsized.

Now, do you see what he's saying here about the place of the obedience of circumcision?

Here is the promise made as Abraham looks up into the sky. he trusts God for doing the impossible and God

credits his helpless childlike trust to him as righteousness. Years later

...