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So then, he is the father of all who believe but are not circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/romans/4-11.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/9/45_Rom_04_11.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="Romans 4:11 - Abraham Justified by Faith" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. 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So then, he is the father of all who believe but have not been circumcised, in order that righteousness might be credited to them. <a href="/nlt/romans/4.htm">New Living Translation</a> Circumcision was a sign that Abraham already had faith and that God had already accepted him and declared him to be righteous—even before he was circumcised. So Abraham is the spiritual father of those who have faith but have not been circumcised. They are counted as righteous because of their faith. <a href="/esv/romans/4.htm">English Standard Version</a> He received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. The purpose was to make him the father of all who believe without being circumcised, so that righteousness would be counted to them as well, <a href="/bsb/romans/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/blb/romans/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had while in the uncircumcision, for him to be father of all those believing while in uncircumcision, for the righteousness to be credited also to them, <a href="/kjv/romans/4.htm">King James Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also: <a href="/nkjv/romans/4.htm">New King James Version</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while still uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they are uncircumcised, that righteousness might be imputed to them also, <a href="/nasb_/romans/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while uncircumcised, so that he might be the father of all who believe without being circumcised, that righteousness might be credited to them, <a href="/nasb/romans/4.htm">NASB 1995</a> and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while uncircumcised, so that he might be the father of all who believe without being circumcised, that righteousness might be credited to them, <a href="/nasb77/romans/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a> and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all who believe without being circumcised, that righteousness might be reckoned to them, <a href="/lsb/romans/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while uncircumcised, so that he might be the father of all who believe without being circumcised, that righteousness might be counted to them, <a href="/amp/romans/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a> He received the sign of circumcision, a seal or confirmation of the righteousness which he had by faith while [he was still] uncircumcised—this was so that he would be the [spiritual] father of all who believe without being circumcised—so that righteousness would be credited to them, <a href="/csb/romans/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while still uncircumcised. This was to make him the father of all who believe but are not circumcised, so that righteousness may be credited to them also. <a href="/hcsb/romans/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while still uncircumcised. This was to make him the father of all who believe but are not circumcised, so that righteousness may be credited to them also. <a href="/asv/romans/4.htm">American Standard Version</a> and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while he was in uncircumcision: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be in uncircumcision, that righteousness might be reckoned unto them; <a href="/cev/romans/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Abraham let himself be circumcised to show he had been accepted because of his faith even before he was circumcised. This makes Abraham the father of all who are acceptable to God because of their faith, even though they are not circumcised. <a href="/erv/romans/4.htm">English Revised Version</a> and he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while he was in uncircumcision: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be in uncircumcision, that righteousness might be reckoned unto them; <a href="/gwt/romans/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Abraham's faith was regarded as God's approval while he was still uncircumcised. The mark of circumcision is the seal of that approval. Therefore, he is the father of every believer who is not circumcised, and their faith, too, is regarded as God's approval of them. <a href="/gnt/romans/4.htm">Good News Translation</a> He was circumcised later, and his circumcision was a sign to show that because of his faith God had accepted him as righteous before he had been circumcised. And so Abraham is the spiritual father of all who believe in God and are accepted as righteous by him, even though they are not circumcised. <a href="/isv/romans/4.htm">International Standard Version</a> Afterward he received the mark of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. Therefore, he is the ancestor of all who believe while uncircumcised, in order that righteousness may be credited to them. <a href="/msb/romans/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> 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. <a href="/net/romans/4.htm">NET Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised, so that he would become the father of all those who believe but have never been circumcised, that they too could have righteousness credited to them. <a href="/nheb/romans/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> He received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while he was in uncircumcision, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they be in uncircumcision, so that righteousness might also be credited to them. <a href="/wbt/romans/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith, which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they are not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed to them also; <a href="/wey/romans/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Before, not after. And he received circumcision as a sign, a mark attesting the reality of the faith-righteousness which was his while still uncircumcised, that he might be the forefather of all those who believe even though they are uncircumcised--in order that this righteousness might be placed to their credit; <a href="/web/romans/4.htm">World English Bible</a> He received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while he was in uncircumcision, that he might be the father of all those who believe, though they might be in uncircumcision, that righteousness might also be accounted to them. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/romans/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> and he received a sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of faith in the uncircumcision, for his being father of all those believing through uncircumcision, for the righteousness also being reckoned to them, <a href="/blb/romans/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had while in the uncircumcision, for him to be father of all those believing while in uncircumcision, for the righteousness to be credited also to them, <a href="/ylt/romans/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> and a sign he did receive of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith in the uncircumcision, for his being father of all those believing through uncircumcision, for the righteousness also being reckoned to them, <a href="/slt/romans/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the justice of the faith which in uncircumcision: for him to be father of all believing through uncircumcision; for justice also to be reckoned to them:<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/romans/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the justice of the faith, which he had, being uncircumcised; that he might be the father of all them that believe, being uncircumcised, that unto them also it may be reputed to justice: <a href="/cpdv/romans/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For he received the sign of circumcision as a symbol of the justice of that faith which exists apart from circumcision, so that he might be the father of all those who believe while uncircumcised, so that it might also be reputed to them unto justice, <a href="/nabre/romans/4.htm">New American Bible</a> And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal on the righteousness received through faith while he was uncircumcised. Thus he was to be the father of all the uncircumcised who believe, so that to them [also] righteousness might be credited, <a href="/nrsvce/romans/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> He received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith while he was still uncircumcised. The purpose was to make him the ancestor of all who believe without being circumcised and who thus have righteousness reckoned to them,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/romans/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For he received circumcision as a sign and a seal of the righteousness of his faith while he was uncircumcised: that he might become the father of all them who believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be given to them also; <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/romans/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For he received circumcision as a sign and the seal of the righteousness of his faith, when in uncircumcision, that he would be the father to all those who believe among the uncircumcision, that it would be reckoned to them also for righteousness.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/romans/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, as a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had while he was uncircumcised, in order that he might be the father of all that believe, even in a state of uncircumcision, so that righteousness might be counted to them also; <a href="/godbey/romans/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, and the seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had in uncircumcision: that he should be the father of all who believed, through uncircumcision; and righteousness should be imputed to them; <a href="/haweis/romans/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, as a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had when uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all those who believe, though uncircumcised; that to them also the righteousness might be imputed: <a href="/mace/romans/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a> and he received the sign of circumcision, as a seal of the justification by that faith, which the uncircumcised have: that he might be the father of all those who believe, tho' they are uncircumcised, that it might be accounted to them also for righteousness: <a href="/wey/romans/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> Before, not after. And he received circumcision as a sign, a mark attesting the reality of the faith-righteousness which was his while still uncircumcised, that he might be the forefather of all those who believe even though they are uncircumcised--in order that this righteousness might be placed to their credit; <a href="/worrell/romans/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had while in uncircumcision; that he might be father of all who believe while in uncircumcision, that the righteousness might be reckoned to them; <a href="/worsley/romans/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had in uncircumcision: that he might be the father of all that believe though not circumcised, that righteousness may be imputed to them also: <a href="/parallel/romans/4-11.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KIZs4GUMn-g?start=916" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/romans/4.htm">Abraham Justified by Faith</a> …10In what context was it credited? Was it after his circumcision, or before? It was not after, but before. 11<a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: Kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">And</a> <a href="/greek/2983.htm" title="2983: elaben (V-AIA-3S) -- (a) I receive, get, (b) I take, lay hold of. ">he received</a> <a href="/greek/4592.htm" title="4592: sēmeion (N-ANS) -- Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of semaino; an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally.">the sign</a> <a href="/greek/4061.htm" title="4061: peritomēs (N-GFS) -- Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision.">of circumcision</a> <a href="/greek/4973.htm" title="4973: sphragida (N-AFS) -- Probably strengthened from phrasso; a signet; by implication, the stamp impressed, literally or figuratively.">as a seal</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/1343.htm" title="1343: dikaiosynēs (N-GFS) -- From dikaios; equity; specially justification.">righteousness</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">that he had</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">by</a> <a href="/greek/4102.htm" title="4102: pisteōs (N-GFS) -- Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness. ">faith</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.">while</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tē (Art-DFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></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.">he was still uncircumcised.</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">So then,</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">he</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: einai (V-PNA) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/3962.htm" title="3962: patera (N-AMS) -- Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a father.">the father</a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: pantōn (Adj-GMP) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.">of all</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">who</a> <a href="/greek/4100.htm" title="4100: pisteuontōn (V-PPA-GMP) -- From pistis; to have faith, i.e. Credit; by implication, to entrust.">believe</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">but</a> <a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: di’ (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through."></a> <a href="/greek/203.htm" title="203: akrobystias (N-GFS) -- From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person.">are not circumcised,</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases.">in order that</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1343.htm" title="1343: dikaiosynēn (N-AFS) -- From dikaios; equity; specially justification.">righteousness</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3049.htm" title="3049: logisthēnai (V-ANP) -- To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose. ">might be credited</a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autois (PPro-DM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">to them.</a> 12And he is also the father of the circumcised who not only are circumcised, but who also walk in the footsteps of the faith that our father Abraham had before he was circumcised.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/genesis/17-10.htm">Genesis 17:10-11</a> 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. <a href="/genesis/15-6.htm">Genesis 15:6</a> Abram believed the LORD, and it was credited to him as righteousness. <a href="/galatians/3-6.htm">Galatians 3:6-9</a> 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.” ... <a href="/colossians/2-11.htm">Colossians 2:11-12</a> In Him you were also circumcised, in the putting off of your sinful nature, with the circumcision performed by Christ and not by human hands. / And having been buried with Him in baptism, you were raised with Him through your faith in the power of God, who raised Him from the dead. <a href="/genesis/17-24.htm">Genesis 17:24-27</a> 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. ... <a href="/acts/7-8.htm">Acts 7:8</a> 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. <a href="/galatians/3-14.htm">Galatians 3:14</a> 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. <a href="/ephesians/2-8.htm">Ephesians 2:8-9</a> 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. <a href="/james/2-23.htm">James 2:23</a> 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. <a href="/genesis/12-3.htm">Genesis 12:3</a> 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.” <a href="/genesis/22-18.htm">Genesis 22:18</a> And through your offspring all nations of the earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed My voice.” <a href="/galatians/3-29.htm">Galatians 3:29</a> And if you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise. <a href="/hebrews/11-8.htm">Hebrews 11:8-10</a> 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. <a href="/genesis/18-18.htm">Genesis 18:18</a> Abraham will surely become a great and powerful nation, and through him all the nations of the earth will be blessed. <a href="/genesis/26-4.htm">Genesis 26:4</a> I will make your descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky, and I will give them all these lands, and through your offspring all nations of the earth will be blessed,</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed to them also:the sign.<a href="/genesis/17-10.htm">Genesis 17:10</a> This is my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every man child among you shall be circumcised.<a href="/exodus/12-13.htm">Exodus 12:13</a> And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.<a href="/exodus/31-13.htm">Exodus 31:13,17</a> Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the LORD that doth sanctify you… a seal.<a href="/romans/2-28.htm">Romans 2:28,29</a> For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: … <a href="/deuteronomy/30-6.htm">Deuteronomy 30:6</a> And the LORD thy God will circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live.<a href="/2_corinthians/1-22.htm">2 Corinthians 1:22</a> Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.righteousness.<a href="/romans/4-13.htm">Romans 4:13</a> For the promise, that he should be the heir of the world, was not to Abraham, or to his seed, through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.<a href="/romans/3-22.htm">Romans 3:22</a> Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference:<a href="/romans/9-30.htm">Romans 9:30</a> What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed not after righteousness, have attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.father.<a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Romans 4:12,16-18</a> And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised… <a href="/romans/3-22.htm">Romans 3:22,26</a> Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: … <a href="/romans/9-6.htm">Romans 9:6,33</a> Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: … that righteousness.<a href="/romans/4-6.htm">Romans 4:6</a> Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Accounted</a> <a href="/ruth/4-7.htm">Attesting</a> <a href="/romans/4-3.htm">Believe</a> <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">Circumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">Circumcision</a> <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/romans/4-13.htm">Faith-Righteousness</a> <a href="/romans/4-1.htm">Forefather</a> <a href="/leviticus/17-4.htm">Imputed</a> <a href="/romans/3-16.htm">Mark</a> <a href="/acts/27-43.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/romans/1-25.htm">Reality</a> <a href="/romans/3-25.htm">Received</a> <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">Reckoned</a> <a href="/romans/4-9.htm">Righteousness</a> <a href="/john/6-27.htm">Seal</a> <a href="/romans/3-25.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">Uncircumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">Uncircumcision</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/romans/4-23.htm">Accounted</a> <a href="/ruth/4-7.htm">Attesting</a> <a href="/romans/4-18.htm">Believe</a> <a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Circumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Circumcision</a> <a href="/romans/4-22.htm">Credited</a> <a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Faith</a> <a href="/romans/4-13.htm">Faith-Righteousness</a> <a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Forefather</a> <a href="/romans/4-22.htm">Imputed</a> <a href="/romans/16-17.htm">Mark</a> <a href="/romans/7-10.htm">Purpose</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-14.htm">Reality</a> <a href="/romans/4-13.htm">Received</a> <a href="/romans/4-22.htm">Reckoned</a> <a href="/romans/4-13.htm">Righteousness</a> <a href="/romans/15-28.htm">Seal</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-22.htm">Sign</a> <a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Uncircumcised</a> <a href="/romans/4-12.htm">Uncircumcision</a><div class="vheading2">Romans 4</div>1. <a href="/romans/4-1.htm">Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness;</a> 10. <a href="/romans/4-10.htm">before he was circumcised.</a> 13. <a href="/romans/4-13.htm">By faith only he and his seed received the promise.</a> 16. <a href="/romans/4-16.htm">Abraham is the father of all who believe.</a> 24. <a href="/romans/4-24.htm">Our faith also shall be credited to us as righteousness.</a> </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>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <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> </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>And he received the sign of circumcision Circumcision was a physical sign given to Abraham as part of the covenant between God and his descendants (<a href="/genesis/17-10.htm">Genesis 17:10-11</a>). It was a mark of identity and separation for the Jewish people, signifying their unique relationship with God. In the ancient Near Eastern context, covenants often included physical signs or rituals to confirm the agreement. This practice was not unique to Israel but was given a distinct theological significance in the biblical narrative.as a seal of the righteousness A seal in ancient times was used to authenticate documents or agreements, much like a signature today. Here, circumcision is described as a seal, indicating that it confirmed or authenticated the righteousness that Abraham already possessed. This righteousness was not based on works or adherence to the law, but on faith. The concept of a seal also points to the permanence and assurance of God's promises.that he had by faith Abraham's righteousness was credited to him because of his faith, as stated earlier in <a href="/romans/4-3.htm">Romans 4:3</a>, referencing <a href="/genesis/15-6.htm">Genesis 15:6</a>. This emphasizes the principle that righteousness before God is based on faith, not on works or physical signs. This foundational truth is central to Paul's argument in Romans, highlighting the continuity of God's plan of salvation from the Old Testament to the New Testament.while he was still uncircumcised Abraham was declared righteous before he was circumcised, which is crucial to Paul's argument that righteousness is apart from the law. This historical fact underscores that the covenantal relationship with God is based on faith, not on ethnic or ritualistic identity. It also prefigures the inclusion of Gentiles into the people of God, as they too can be justified by faith without adhering to Jewish ceremonial laws.So then, he is the father of all who believe but are not circumcised Abraham is presented as the spiritual father of all believers, not just those who are physically descended from him or who follow Jewish customs. This expands the scope of God's promise to include Gentiles, fulfilling the promise that all nations would be blessed through Abraham (<a href="/genesis/12-3.htm">Genesis 12:3</a>). This spiritual fatherhood is based on shared faith, not on physical lineage or ritual observance.in order that righteousness might be credited to them The purpose of Abraham's example is to show that righteousness is credited to all who have faith, regardless of their cultural or religious background. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of salvation by grace through faith, as seen in <a href="/ephesians/2-8.htm">Ephesians 2:8-9</a>. It also reflects the prophetic vision of a diverse people of God, united not by law but by faith in Christ, who is the ultimate fulfillment of the promises made to Abraham.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/a/abraham.htm">Abraham</a> The central figure in this passage, Abraham is considered the father of faith. He received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness he had by faith. 2. <a href="/topical/c/circumcision.htm">Circumcision</a> A physical sign given to Abraham and his descendants, symbolizing the covenant between God and His people. It serves as a seal of the righteousness that comes by faith. 3. <a href="/topical/r/righteousness_by_faith.htm">Righteousness by Faith</a> A key theological concept in Romans, emphasizing that righteousness is credited to individuals through faith, not through works or adherence to the law. 4. <a href="/topical/u/uncircumcised_believers.htm">Uncircumcised Believers</a> Refers to Gentiles who come to faith in Christ and are considered righteous through faith, just as Abraham was before he was circumcised. 5. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of the Book of Romans, who is explaining the doctrine of justification by faith using Abraham as an example.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/f/faith_precedes_works.htm">Faith Precedes Works</a> Abraham's example shows that faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. Works, such as circumcision, are outward signs of an inward faith. <a href="/topical/u/universal_access_to_righteousness.htm">Universal Access to Righteousness</a> The promise of righteousness through faith is available to all, Jew and Gentile alike. This underscores the inclusivity of the Gospel. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_signs_and_seals.htm">The Role of Signs and Seals</a> Circumcision was a sign and seal of the righteousness Abraham had by faith. In the New Covenant, baptism serves a similar role as an outward sign of inward faith. <a href="/topical/s/spiritual_heritage.htm">Spiritual Heritage</a> Believers are spiritual descendants of Abraham, called to live by faith and trust in God's promises. <a href="/topical/l/living_by_faith.htm">Living by Faith</a> Just as Abraham trusted God before seeing the fulfillment of His promises, believers are called to live by faith, trusting in God's timing and provision.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/romans/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(11) The sign of circumcision--i.e., circumcision as a sign. The expression is an instance of what is known in Greek as the "genitive of apposition," but it is common in English. Thus we speak of the City of London, the County of Kent.Abraham is the father (1) of faithful uncircumcised--he himself being so--and (2) of circumcised, but only of faithful circumcised.A seal of the righteousness . . .--The Apostle here puts forth his view of the real import of circumcision. It was not (as so many of his contemporaries supposed) the cause or condition of Israel's privileges so much as the sign or ratification of them. It ratified a state of things already existing when it was instituted. Hence, to those who inherited that state of things (justification by faith) the want of circumcision was no bar.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/romans/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 11, 12. - And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had in uncircumcision (this was all that circumcision was - a visible sign and seal to his own descendants of the righteousness that is of faith; but not confining it to them, or in itself conferring it) that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be in uncircumcision, that righteousness might be reckoned unto them also. And the father of circumcision to them who are not of circumcision only, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham which he had in uncircumcision. The intention of ver. 12 is to express that, though the faithful who are not of Israel are Abraham's children, yet his circumcised descendants have not lost their privilege. They are already his children according to the flesh, and his spiritual children too, if they walk in the steps of his faith (cf. <a href="/john/8-37.htm">John 8:37</a>, "I know that ye are Abraham's seed," compared with ver. 39, "If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham"). What now follows is to show (as above explained) that the Law could not be the fulfilment of the promise to Abraham, or appropriate its blessing to the Jews. <a href="/commentaries/romans/4-11.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>And Καὶ (Kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. he received ἔλαβεν (elaben) Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2983.htm">Strong's 2983: </a> (a) I receive, get, (b) I take, lay hold of. [the] sign σημεῖον (sēmeion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4592.htm">Strong's 4592: </a> Neuter of a presumed derivative of the base of semaino; an indication, especially ceremonially or supernaturally. of circumcision περιτομῆς (peritomēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4061.htm">Strong's 4061: </a> Circumcision. From peritemno; circumcision. [as] a seal σφραγῖδα (sphragida) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4973.htm">Strong's 4973: </a> Probably strengthened from phrasso; a signet; by implication, the stamp impressed, literally or figuratively. of the τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. righteousness δικαιοσύνης (dikaiosynēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1343.htm">Strong's 1343: </a> From dikaios; equity; specially justification. that [he had] τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. by τῆς (tēs) Article - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. faith πίστεως (pisteōs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4102.htm">Strong's 4102: </a> Faith, belief, trust, confidence; fidelity, faithfulness. [while] ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. [he was still] uncircumcised. ἀκροβυστίᾳ (akrobystia) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_203.htm">Strong's 203: </a> From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person. So then, εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. he αὐτὸν (auton) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. is εἶναι (einai) Verb - Present Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. [the] father πατέρα (patera) Noun - Accusative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3962.htm">Strong's 3962: </a> Father, (Heavenly) Father, ancestor, elder, senior. Apparently a primary word; a 'father'. of all πάντων (pantōn) Adjective - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3956.htm">Strong's 3956: </a> All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole. who τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. believe πιστευόντων (pisteuontōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4100.htm">Strong's 4100: </a> From pistis; to have faith, i.e. Credit; by implication, to entrust. [but] καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. are not circumcised, ἀκροβυστίας (akrobystias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_203.htm">Strong's 203: </a> From akron and probably a modified form of posthe; the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised state or person. in order that εἰς (eis) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1519.htm">Strong's 1519: </a> A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases. righteousness δικαιοσύνην (dikaiosynēn) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1343.htm">Strong's 1343: </a> From dikaios; equity; specially justification. might be credited λογισθῆναι (logisthēnai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Passive <a href="/greek/strongs_3049.htm">Strong's 3049: </a> To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose. to them. αὐτοῖς (autois) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/romans/4-11.htm">Romans 4:11 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/romans/4-11.htm">NT Letters: Romans 4:11 He received the sign of circumcision (Rom. Ro) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/romans/4-10.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="Romans 4:10"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="Romans 4:10" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/romans/4-12.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="Romans 4:12"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="Romans 4:12" /></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>