Romans 4:12

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} the father {G3962} of circumcision {G4061} to them who are not {G3756} of {G1537} the circumcision {G4061} only {G3440}, but {G235} who also {G2532} walk {G4748} in the steps {G2487} of that faith {G4102} of our {G2257} father {G3962} Abraham {G11}, which he had being {G1722} yet uncircumcised {G203}.

Complete Jewish Bible

and at the same time be the father of every circumcised person who not only has had a b’rit-milah, but also follows in the footsteps of the trust which Avraham avinu had when he was still uncircumcised.

Berean Standard Bible

And 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.

American Standard Version

and the father of circumcision to them who not only are of the circumcision, but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham which he had in uncircumcision.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 4:12 concludes Paul's argument that Abraham's righteousness was credited to him by faith before he was circumcised, establishing him as the spiritual father not only of those who are physically circumcised but, more profoundly, of all who emulate his uncircumcised faith. This verse underscores the universal nature of salvation through faith, transcending ethnic and ritualistic boundaries by defining true spiritual lineage through a shared pattern of trust in God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of Paul's intricate argument in [Romans 4](/romans/4 "Romans 4 - Justification by Faith Exemplified by Abraham"), where he meticulously demonstrates that justification is by faith alone, not by works of the law or by circumcision. Paul begins by quoting [Genesis 15:6](/genesis/15-6 "Genesis 15:6 - Abraham Believed God") to show Abraham was declared righteous by faith. He then directly addresses the timing of Abraham's circumcision in [Romans 4:9-10](/romans/4-9-10 "Romans 4:9-10 - Righteousness Before Circumcision"), proving that Abraham's faith-righteousness preceded the sign of circumcision. [Romans 4:11](/romans/4-11 "Romans 4:11 - Circumcision as a Seal of Righteousness") further clarifies that circumcision was a *seal* of the righteousness Abraham already possessed by faith while uncircumcised. Verse 12 then extends this truth, defining Abraham's fatherhood as encompassing all who walk in the same path of faith, whether circumcised or not, thus setting the stage for the inclusion of Gentiles into God's covenant family through faith.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** For first-century Jews, circumcision was the paramount sign of the covenant with God, marking them as God's chosen people and distinguishing them from Gentiles. It was a deeply ingrained cultural and religious practice, often seen as a prerequisite for full inclusion in the community of God's people and for righteousness. Paul's audience included both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome, and there was significant tension regarding the necessity of Jewish customs, particularly circumcision, for Gentile converts. By emphasizing Abraham's uncircumcised faith, Paul directly challenges the prevailing Jewish understanding that physical descent and adherence to the Mosaic Law (symbolized by circumcision) were the primary means of belonging to God's people. He redefines true lineage not by blood or ritual, but by a shared spiritual disposition.
* **Key Themes:** [Romans 4:12](/romans/4-12 "Romans 4:12 - Abraham's Fatherhood of Faith") contributes significantly to several key themes within Romans and Paul's broader theology. First, it powerfully reinforces the theme of **Justification by Faith**, asserting that righteousness is a gift received through trust in God, independent of human effort or ritual. Second, it highlights the **Universality of Salvation**, demonstrating that God's plan of salvation is not exclusive to one ethnic group but is open to all, Jew and Gentile alike, who respond in faith. This directly relates to Paul's argument in [Romans 3:29-30](/romans/3-29-30 "Romans 3:29-30 - God of Jews and Gentiles"). Third, it redefines **Abraham's Spiritual Fatherhood**, shifting the focus from physical descent to spiritual kinship based on shared faith. Abraham becomes the prototype for all believers, establishing a new covenant community defined by faith, not by the Law or physical markers, a concept further developed in [Galatians 3:7-9](/galatians/3-7-9 "Galatians 3:7-9 - Those of Faith are Sons of Abraham").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **father (Greek, _patḗr'_):** From G3962, meaning a "father" literally or figuratively, near or more remote. In this context, it signifies Abraham's foundational role as the progenitor and archetype of faith. Paul uses "father" to denote not merely biological descent but spiritual headship, emphasizing that Abraham's significance extends beyond his physical offspring to include all who share his defining characteristic: faith in God.
* **steps (Greek, _íchnos'_):** From G2487, meaning a track or, figuratively, a step. This word conveys the idea of following a path or pattern. "Walking in the steps" implies an active emulation and adherence to Abraham's example of faith. It's not just about intellectual assent to his story but about living out the same kind of trusting obedience that characterized Abraham's relationship with God.
* **faith (Greek, _pístis'_):** From G4102, meaning persuasion, credence, or moral conviction, especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession. Here, it refers to Abraham's active trust and belief in God's promises, which was accounted to him as righteousness. Paul emphasizes that this faith, not circumcision, is the true mark of Abraham's spiritual children. It is a dynamic, living trust that results in a transformed life.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only,"**: This clause acknowledges Abraham's historical and covenantal role as the father of the circumcised (the Jewish people). However, the crucial phrase "not of the circumcision only" immediately introduces a limitation to this physical lineage, signaling that his fatherhood extends beyond this singular group. It sets up a contrast, indicating that Abraham's spiritual progeny is not exclusively defined by the physical sign of circumcision.
* **"but who also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham,"**: This is the pivotal part of the verse, defining the true nature of Abraham's spiritual fatherhood. It asserts that Abraham is the father of those who "walk in the steps" – that is, who actively follow the pattern and example – of his faith. The emphasis is entirely on the *faith* that Abraham demonstrated, not on any ritual or ethnic identity. This clause broadens Abraham's spiritual family to include anyone, Jew or Gentile, who shares his trust in God.
* **"which [he had] being [yet] uncircumcised."**: This final phrase provides the critical historical and theological grounding for Paul's argument. By highlighting that Abraham possessed this saving faith *before* he was circumcised, Paul decisively separates righteousness from the act of circumcision. This timing proves that circumcision was a *sign* of a righteousness already received by faith, not the *means* of obtaining it. Thus, Abraham's uncircumcised faith becomes the paradigm for all believers, validating the inclusion of uncircumcised Gentiles into God's covenant family.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices to convey his profound theological point in [Romans 4:12](/romans/4-12 "Romans 4:12 - Abraham's Fatherhood of Faith"). The most prominent is **Contrast**, as he juxtaposes physical circumcision with spiritual faith. He contrasts those who are "of the circumcision only" with those who "walk in the steps of that faith," thereby distinguishing between a superficial, external marker of identity and a genuine, internal spiritual reality. This contrast is central to his argument throughout Romans. Another key device is **Metaphor**, specifically in the phrase "walk in the steps." This vivid imagery portrays faith not as a static belief but as an active, dynamic journey, following a path laid out by Abraham. It implies imitation, adherence, and a lifestyle congruent with the nature of Abraham's trust in God. Furthermore, there is an element of **Synecdoche**, where "circumcision" stands in for the entire Mosaic Law and the Jewish identity based on it. By challenging the centrality of circumcision, Paul is effectively challenging the idea that adherence to the Law is the basis for righteousness, redirecting the focus to faith as the sole criterion for inclusion in God's family.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 4:12 is a foundational text for understanding the universality of God's redemptive plan and the nature of true spiritual lineage. It dismantles the notion that salvation is exclusive to any ethnic group or dependent on external rituals, asserting that a shared faith in God, exemplified by Abraham, is the sole criterion for belonging to God's family. This redefinition of Abraham's fatherhood highlights God's consistent method of salvation across all dispensations: by grace through faith. It underscores that the covenant promises made to Abraham were always intended to bless "all the families of the earth" ([Genesis 12:3](/genesis/12-3 "Genesis 12:3 - God's Promise to Abraham")), fulfilled through the inclusive nature of faith.

* [Galatians 3:7](/galatians/3-7 "Galatians 3:7 - Those of Faith are Sons of Abraham"): "Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham."
* [Romans 2:28-29](/romans/2-28-29 "Romans 2:28-29 - True Circumcision of the Heart"): "For he is not a Jew, which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision, which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God."
* [James 2:21-24](/james/2-21-24 "James 2:21-24 - Abraham's Faith and Works"): "Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 4:12 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, challenging us to examine the true basis of our spiritual identity and belonging. It reminds us that our connection to God's family is not predicated on our background, ethnicity, social status, or adherence to external religious markers, but solely on the genuine, active faith that mirrors Abraham's trust in God. This verse calls us to "walk in the steps of that faith," which implies a dynamic, living relationship with God characterized by obedience, reliance, and the pursuit of righteousness, just as Abraham's faith was demonstrated through his actions. It encourages us to embrace the radical inclusivity of the Gospel, recognizing that all who believe are united in Christ, transcending any human-made divisions. Our application involves not just intellectual assent to doctrine but a daily commitment to trust God in all circumstances, allowing our faith to shape our lives and demonstrate its reality to the world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might we, like the first-century Jews, be tempted to rely on external markers or traditions for our spiritual identity instead of genuine faith?**
* **What does it practically mean to "walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham" in your daily life?**
* **How does the emphasis on Abraham's uncircumcised faith challenge any exclusive or elitist views within the Christian community today?**
* **How can you better demonstrate the universality of God's grace and the inclusivity of the Gospel in your interactions with others?**

### FAQ

**What is the significance of Abraham being called "the father of circumcision" yet also the father of the uncircumcised?**

Answer: Paul uses the phrase "father of circumcision" to acknowledge Abraham's historical role as the patriarch from whom the Jewish people, marked by circumcision, descended. However, the critical point of [Romans 4:12](/romans/4-12 "Romans 4:12 - Abraham's Fatherhood of Faith") is the qualification that follows: he is father "to them who are not of the circumcision *only*." This means his fatherhood extends beyond physical lineage and ritual. Paul emphasizes that Abraham's righteousness was credited to him *before* he was circumcised ([Romans 4:10](/romans/4-10 "Romans 4:10 - Abraham Justified Before Circumcision")). Therefore, Abraham is truly the spiritual father of all who share his faith, whether they are physically circumcised (Jews) or uncircumcised (Gentiles). This redefines true spiritual lineage, making faith, not physical descent or ritual, the defining characteristic of God's people.

**Does this verse imply that circumcision is irrelevant or wrong for believers?**

Answer: While [Romans 4:12](/romans/4-12 "Romans 4:12 - Abraham's Fatherhood of Faith") strongly argues that circumcision is not the basis for righteousness or inclusion in God's family, it doesn't necessarily declare it "wrong." Paul's primary aim is to show that it is *not necessary* for salvation and does not confer righteousness. For Jewish believers, it might have continued as a cultural practice, but it lost its salvific significance. For Gentiles, it was never a requirement. The verse, along with Paul's broader argument in [Romans](/romans/2 "Romans 2 - True Circumcision") and [Galatians](/galatians/5 "Galatians 5 - Freedom in Christ"), elevates the "circumcision of the heart" ([Romans 2:29](/romans/2-29 "Romans 2:29 - Circumcision of the Heart"))—a spiritual transformation through faith—over the physical rite. The focus shifts from an outward sign to an inward reality.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 4:12 finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the true seed of Abraham through whom all the nations of the earth are blessed ([Galatians 3:16](/galatians/3-16 "Galatians 3:16 - The Seed is Christ")). Abraham's faith, which was credited to him as righteousness while he was uncircumcised, foreshadows the universal accessibility of salvation through faith in Christ. Just as Abraham believed God's promise and it was counted to him for righteousness, so too are all who believe in Jesus Christ—His atoning death and resurrection—justified by faith, regardless of their ethnic background or adherence to any external law or ritual ([Romans 3:22](/romans/3-22 "Romans 3:22 - Righteousness Through Faith in Jesus Christ")). Jesus is the perfect embodiment of faith and obedience, and through Him, both Jews and Gentiles who "walk in the steps of that faith" become true children of Abraham, heirs according to the promise ([Galatians 3:29](/galatians/3-29 "Galatians 3:29 - Heirs According to the Promise")). The spiritual lineage of Abraham culminates in Christ, making Him the head of a new humanity united by faith, not by flesh or law ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). Thus, Abraham's fatherhood, as defined in this verse, points directly to the inclusive, global family of God established through the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 2:20

That thou mayest walk in the way of good [men], and keep the paths of the righteous.

Song Of Solomon 1:8

If thou know not, O thou fairest among women, go thy way forth by the footsteps of the flock, and feed thy kids beside the shepherds' tents.

John 8:39

They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the works of Abraham.

John 8:40

But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.

2 Corinthians 12:18

I desired Titus, and with [him] I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? walked we not in the same spirit? [walked we] not in the same steps?

Galatians 4:22

For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.

Galatians 4:31

So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.