Commentary on Romans 1:17

Verse: "For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, 'The righteous shall live by faith.'

Romans 1:17 serves as a pivotal verse in the Book of Romans, encapsulating the theme of divine righteousness and the believer's response of faith. This section of the commentary synthesizes insights from renowned public domain scholars to deepen the understanding of this profound verse.

1. Introduction to the Righteousness of God

This verse unfolds with the revelation of God's righteousness, which is a central motif in the epistle. Matthew Henry emphasizes that the righteousness of God is not only a legal standing but also manifests in the transformative power of the Gospel. It is the act by which God declares sinners righteous through faith.

Albert Barnes adds to this insight, indicating that this righteousness is revealed in the Gospel message itself. The Gospel exposes the sinful state of man while simultaneously showcasing the redemptive work of Christ, thereby establishing God's righteousness for all who believe.

2. The Concept of 'Faith'

The phrase "from faith for faith" signifies the continual process of living by faith. Adam Clarke suggests that this could imply that faith serves as the foundation for the Christian life and is perpetually sowed and nurtured through ongoing belief and trust in God.

Henry interprets this as an encouragement to both the weak and strong in faith; the weak must be sustained by assurance of acceptance, while the strong are reminded to continue relying upon God’s grace. This emphasizes that our initial faith leads to ongoing faith, reflecting a life sustained by dependence on God.

3. The Old Testament Quotation

The latter part of the verse, “as it is written, 'The righteous shall live by faith,'” echoes Habakkuk 2:4. This Old Testament foundation is essential for understanding Paul’s argument. Barnes notes that Paul uses this quotation to establish the principle that true righteousness is grounded in faith rather than in works or law.

Clarke elaborates on this by suggesting that this quotation serves to bridge the Old Testament understanding of faith with its fulfillment in Christ. By quoting Habakkuk, Paul aligns the message of the Gospel with the tradition of the Jewish faith, arguing that faith has always been the means through which God justifies His people.

4. The Nature of Righteousness

Righteousness in this context is multi-faceted. It is judicial, as God judges the believer as righteous, and it is relational, indicating a right standing between God and the believer. Henry stresses the importance of recognizing that this righteousness is not based on human merit but is a gift from God through faith.

When believers trust in Jesus Christ, they are justified before God, not because of their own works but due to His grace. Barnes points out that this righteousness leads to a transformation in the believer's life, empowering them to reflect God's character.

5. Implications for the Believer

For the believer, Romans 1:17 encapsulates the essence of the Christian walk. The phrase "shall live by faith" is not simply an abstract theology but a practical lifestyle. Clarke notes that this living by faith signifies a daily reliance on God’s provision, guidance, and grace.

Moreover, Henry indicates that the life of faith encompasses every aspect of a believer’s life, dictating their attitudes, actions, and reactions to life's circumstances. It is a dynamic faith that involves trust, perseverance, and transformation.

6. Conclusion

Romans 1:17 stands as a cornerstone for understanding the relationship between faith and righteousness. Its theological depth addresses both the nature of God’s justice and the believer's response. The insights drawn from the commentaries of Henry, Barnes, and Clarke emphasize that the righteousness of God is both a declarative act and a practical outworking in the life of the believer. In a world filled with uncertainty, this verse encourages believers to anchor their lives in the faith that God supplies, leading to a life that reflects His righteousness and glory.

7. Further Reflection

Prayer: May we continuously seek to understand and embody the righteousness of God, living by faith and glorifying Him in all that we do.