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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>Romans 4:10 In what context was it credited? Was it after his circumcision, or before? It was not after, but before.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/romans/4-10.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/8/45_Rom_04_10.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Romans 4:10 - Abraham Justified by Faith" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="In what context was it credited? Was it after his circumcision, or before? It was not after, but before." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/romans/4-10.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/romans/4-10.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/romans/">Romans</a> > <a href="/romans/4.htm">Chapter 4</a> > Verse 10</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad10.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/romans/4-9.htm" title="Romans 4:9">◄</a> Romans 4:10 <a href="/romans/4-11.htm" title="Romans 4:11">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/romans/4.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/romans/4.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/romans/4.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />But how did this happen? Was he counted as righteous only after he was circumcised, or was it before he was circumcised? Clearly, God accepted Abraham before he was circumcised!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/romans/4.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />How then was it counted to him? Was it before or after he had been circumcised? It was not after, but before he was circumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/romans/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />In what context was it credited? Was it after his circumcision, or before? It was not after, but before.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/romans/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />How then was it credited? Being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/romans/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/romans/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />How then was it accounted? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/romans/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />How then was it credited? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/romans/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />How then was it credited? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/romans/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />How then was it reckoned? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/romans/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />How then was it counted? While he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while circumcised, but while uncircumcised;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/romans/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />How then was it credited [to him]? Was it after he had been circumcised, or before? Not after, but while [he was] uncircumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/romans/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />In what way, then, was it credited—while he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? It was not while he was circumcised, but uncircumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/romans/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />In what way then was it credited—while he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while he was circumcised, but uncircumcised. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/romans/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />How then was it reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/romans/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />But when did this happen? Was it before or after Abraham was circumcised? Of course, it was before. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/romans/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />How then was it reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/romans/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />How was his faith regarded as God's approval? Was he circumcised or was he uncircumcised at that time? He had not been circumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/romans/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />When did this take place? Was it before or after Abraham was circumcised? It was before, not after. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/romans/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Under what circumstances was it credited? Was he circumcised or uncircumcised? He had not yet been circumcised, but was uncircumcised. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/romans/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />In what context was it credited? Was it after his circumcision, or before? It was not after, but before.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/romans/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />How then was it credited to him? Was he circumcised at the time, or not? No, he was not circumcised but uncircumcised!<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/romans/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />How then was it credited? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/romans/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />How then was it reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/romans/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />What then were the circumstances under which this took place? Was it after he had been circumcised, or before?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/romans/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />How then was it counted? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/romans/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />How then was it reckoned? He being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/romans/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />How then was it credited? Being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/romans/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> how then was it reckoned? he being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/romans/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />How then was it reckoned? to him being in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/romans/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />How then was it reputed? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/romans/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />But then how was it reputed? In circumcision or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/romans/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Under what circumstances was it credited? Was he circumcised or not? He was not circumcised, but uncircumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/romans/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />How then was it reckoned to him? Was it before or after he had been circumcised? It was not after, but before he was circumcised.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/romans/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />How then was it given to him? by means of circumcision, or in uncircumcision? It was not given in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/romans/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />How therefore was it accounted to him, in circumcision or in uncircumcision? It was not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/romans/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Under what circumstances, then, was it counted? After he was circumcised? Or, while he was uncircumcised? Not after he was circumcised, but while he was uncircumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/romans/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Then how was it imputed? to him, being in circumcision or uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/romans/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />How then was it imputed to him? when circumcised, or while uncircumcised? Not when circumcised, but whilst uncircumcised.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/romans/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />how was it then accounted? whilst he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? he was not then circumcised, but uncircumcised:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/romans/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />What then were the circumstances under which this took place? Was it after he had been circumcised, or before?<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/romans/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />How, then, was it reckoned? When he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/romans/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />How then was it accounted <i>to him?</i> when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/romans/4-10.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KIZs4GUMn-g?start=905" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/romans/4.htm">Abraham Justified by Faith</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">9</span>Is this blessing only on the circumcised, or also on the uncircumcised? We have been saying that Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness. <span class="reftext">10</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/4459.htm" title="4459: pōs (Adv) -- Adverb from the base of pou; an interrogative particle of manner; in what way?; also as exclamation, how much!">In what context</a> <a href="/greek/3767.htm" title="3767: oun (Conj) -- Therefore, then. Apparently a primary word; certainly, or accordingly."></a> <a href="/greek/3049.htm" title="3049: elogisthē (V-AIP-3S) -- To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose. ">was it credited?</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: onti (V-PPA-DMS) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">Was it after</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/4061.htm" title="4061: peritomē (N-DFS) -- Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.">his circumcision,</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/203.htm" title="203: akrobystia (N-DFS) -- From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.">before?</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">It was not</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/4061.htm" title="4061: peritomē (N-DFS) -- Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.">after,</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/203.htm" title="203: akrobystia (N-DFS) -- From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.">before.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">11</span>And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. So then, he is the father of all who believe but are not circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/15-6.htm">Genesis 15:6</a></span><br />Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/3-6.htm">Galatians 3:6-9</a></span><br />So also, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” / Understand, then, that those who have faith are sons of Abraham. / The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and foretold the gospel to Abraham: “All nations will be blessed through you.” ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/james/2-23.htm">James 2:23</a></span><br />And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,” and he was called a friend of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/17-10.htm">Genesis 17:10-11</a></span><br />This is My covenant with you and your descendants after you, which you are to keep: Every male among you must be circumcised. / You are to circumcise the flesh of your foreskin, and this will be a sign of the covenant between Me and you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/3-14.htm">Galatians 3:14</a></span><br />He redeemed us in order that the blessing promised to Abraham would come to the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, so that by faith we might receive the promise of the Spirit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/12-3.htm">Genesis 12:3</a></span><br />I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/17-24.htm">Genesis 17:24-27</a></span><br />So Abraham was ninety-nine years old when he was circumcised, / and his son Ishmael was thirteen; / Abraham and his son Ishmael were circumcised on the same day. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/7-8.htm">Acts 7:8</a></span><br />Then God gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision, and Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him on the eighth day. And Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob of the twelve patriarchs.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/5-6.htm">Galatians 5:6</a></span><br />For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. What matters is faith expressing itself through love.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/17-1.htm">Genesis 17:1-5</a></span><br />When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to him and said, “I am God Almighty. Walk before Me and be blameless. / I will establish My covenant between Me and you, and I will multiply you exceedingly.” / Then Abram fell facedown, and God said to him, ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/2-8.htm">Ephesians 2:8-9</a></span><br />For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, / not by works, so that no one can boast.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/18-18.htm">Genesis 18:18</a></span><br />Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and through him all the nations of the earth will be blessed.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/3-29.htm">Galatians 3:29</a></span><br />And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/genesis/22-18.htm">Genesis 22:18</a></span><br />And through your offspring all nations of the earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/11-8.htm">Hebrews 11:8-10</a></span><br />By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, without knowing where he was going. / By faith he dwelt in the promised land as a stranger in a foreign country. He lived in tents, as did Isaac and Jacob, who were heirs with him of the same promise. / For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.</p><p class="hdg">not in circumcision.</p><p class="hdg">See</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/15-5.htm">Genesis 15:5,6,16</a></b></br> And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/16-1.htm">Genesis 16:1-3</a></b></br> Now Sarai Abram's wife bare him no children: and she had an handmaid, an Egyptian, whose name <i>was</i> Hagar… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/genesis/17-1.htm">Genesis 17:1,10,23-27</a></b></br> And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I <i>am</i> the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect… </p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Circumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Circumcision</a> <a href="/john/21-1.htm">Circumstances</a> <a href="/romans/4-5.htm">Counted</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/romans/3-7.htm">Judged</a> <a href="/job/28-14.htm">Not</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Reckoned</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Uncircumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Uncircumcision</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/romans/4-11.htm">Circumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-11.htm">Circumcision</a> <a href="/romans/4-18.htm">Circumstances</a> <a href="/romans/5-13.htm">Counted</a> <a href="/romans/4-11.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/romans/8-1.htm">Judged</a> <a href="/romans/7-15.htm">Not</a> <a href="/romans/4-11.htm">Reckoned</a> <a href="/romans/4-11.htm">Uncircumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-11.htm">Uncircumcision</a><div class="vheading2">Romans 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/romans/4-1.htm">Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">10. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/romans/4-10.htm">before he was circumcised.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">13. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/romans/4-13.htm">By faith only he and his seed received the promise.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/romans/4-16.htm">Abraham is the father of all who believe.</a></span><br><span class="reftext">24. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/romans/4-24.htm">Our faith also shall be credited to us as righteousness.</a></span><br></div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> <br /><br /> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/romans/4.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/romans/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/romans/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>In what context was it credited?</b><br>This phrase refers to the righteousness credited to Abraham by faith. The context is crucial because it highlights the principle that righteousness comes through faith, not works or adherence to the law. This is a foundational concept in Paul's argument that salvation is available to all, Jew and Gentile alike, through faith in Jesus Christ. The crediting of righteousness to Abraham is first mentioned in <a href="/genesis/15-6.htm">Genesis 15:6</a>, where Abraham believed God's promise, and it was counted to him as righteousness. This sets a precedent for understanding faith as the means of being justified before God.<p><b>Was it after his circumcision, or before?</b><br>This question addresses the timing of when Abraham was declared righteous. Circumcision was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham, introduced in <a href="/genesis/17.htm">Genesis 17</a>. However, Abraham was declared righteous in <a href="/genesis/15.htm">Genesis 15</a>, before the covenant of circumcision was established. This distinction is significant because it underscores that righteousness by faith precedes and is independent of the law or any physical sign. It emphasizes that the promise of righteousness through faith is not limited to those who are circumcised, but is available to all who believe.<p><b>It was not after, but before.</b><br>This statement confirms that Abraham's righteousness was credited before he was circumcised. This order of events is crucial in Paul's argument to the Roman church, as it demonstrates that the Gentiles, who are not circumcised, can also be justified by faith. It reinforces the idea that faith, not adherence to the law or physical rituals, is the basis for righteousness. This principle is echoed in <a href="/galatians/3-7.htm">Galatians 3:7-9</a>, where Paul explains that those who have faith are children of Abraham and are blessed along with him. This teaching aligns with the broader biblical narrative that God's plan of salvation through faith was always intended for all nations, fulfilling the promise that all peoples on earth will be blessed through Abraham.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/a/abraham.htm">Abraham</a></b><br>The central figure in this passage, Abraham is considered the father of faith. His faith was credited to him as righteousness before he was circumcised, making him a model for both Jews and Gentiles.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/c/circumcision.htm">Circumcision</a></b><br>A physical sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants. In this context, it represents the Jewish law and customs.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a></b><br>The apostle who wrote the letter to the Romans. He uses Abraham's example to illustrate that righteousness comes through faith, not works or adherence to the law.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/r/romans.htm">Romans</a></b><br>The recipients of Paul's letter, a diverse group of Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/f/faith.htm">Faith</a></b><br>The key theme of this passage, emphasizing that righteousness is credited through faith, not through physical signs or works.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/f/faith_precedes_works.htm">Faith Precedes Works</a></b><br>Abraham's righteousness was credited before circumcision, illustrating that faith is the foundation of our relationship with God, not our works or adherence to religious rituals.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/i/inclusivity_of_the_gospel.htm">Inclusivity of the Gospel</a></b><br>By highlighting that Abraham was justified by faith before circumcision, Paul shows that the gospel is for both Jews and Gentiles, breaking down barriers of ethnicity and religious tradition.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/r/righteousness_by_faith.htm">Righteousness by Faith</a></b><br>Believers today are called to trust in God's promises and rely on faith for righteousness, rather than attempting to earn it through religious observance or good deeds.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/h/historical_context_and_modern_application.htm">Historical Context and Modern Application</a></b><br>Understanding the historical context of circumcision helps us apply the principle of faith over works in our modern context, where we might be tempted to rely on religious rituals or traditions for our standing with God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/l/living_by_faith.htm">Living by Faith</a></b><br>Just as Abraham's faith was active and led to obedience, our faith should lead us to live in a way that reflects our trust in God, impacting our daily decisions and interactions.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_romans_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from Romans 4</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/diligent_or_slothful_habits.htm">What is the significance of circumcision in the Bible?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/should_christians_use_credit_cards.htm">Should Christians use credit cards?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/does_romans_4_6-8_conflict_with_judgment.htm">In Romans 4:6-8, does the idea of sin not being counted against believers conflict with other biblical passages that emphasize judgment and accountability?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_about_suicide.htm">What defines true righteousness according to the Bible?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/romans/4-10.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">In what context</span><br /><span class="grk">πῶς</span> <span class="translit">(pōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4459.htm">Strong's 4459: </a> </span><span class="str2">Adverb from the base of pou; an interrogative particle of manner; in what way?; also as exclamation, how much!</span><br /><br /><span class="word">was it credited?</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐλογίσθη</span> <span class="translit">(elogisthē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 3rd Person Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3049.htm">Strong's 3049: </a> </span><span class="str2">To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">[Was it after]</span><br /><span class="grk">ὄντι</span> <span class="translit">(onti)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Dative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> </span><span class="str2">I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">his circumcision,</span><br /><span class="grk">περιτομῇ</span> <span class="translit">(peritomē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4061.htm">Strong's 4061: </a> </span><span class="str2">Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">or</span><br /><span class="grk">ἢ</span> <span class="translit">(ē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> </span><span class="str2">Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[before]?</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀκροβυστίᾳ</span> <span class="translit">(akrobystia)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_203.htm">Strong's 203: </a> </span><span class="str2">From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[It was] not</span><br /><span class="grk">οὐκ</span> <span class="translit">(ouk)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> </span><span class="str2">No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[after],</span><br /><span class="grk">περιτομῇ</span> <span class="translit">(peritomē)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4061.htm">Strong's 4061: </a> </span><span class="str2">Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">but</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀλλ’</span> <span class="translit">(all’)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> </span><span class="str2">But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[before].</span><br /><span class="grk">ἀκροβυστίᾳ</span> <span class="translit">(akrobystia)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_203.htm">Strong's 203: </a> </span><span class="str2">From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/romans/4-10.htm">Romans 4:10 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/romans/4-10.htm">NT Letters: Romans 4:10 How then was it counted? When he (Rom. Ro) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/romans/4-9.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Romans 4:9"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Romans 4:9" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/romans/4-11.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Romans 4:11"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Romans 4:11" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>