Romans 4:24

KJV

But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G235} for {G1223} us {G2248} also {G2532}, to whom {G3739} it shall be {G3195} imputed {G3049}, if we believe {G4100} on {G1909} him that raised up {G1453} Jesus {G2424} our {G2257} Lord {G2962} from {G1537} the dead {G3498};

Complete Jewish Bible

They were written also for us, who will certainly have our account credited too, because we have trusted in him who raised Yeshua our Lord from the dead —

Berean Standard Bible

but also for us, to whom righteousness will be credited—for us who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.

American Standard Version

but for our sake also, unto whom it shall be reckoned, who believe on him that raised Jesus our Lord from the dead,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Romans 4:24 serves as the climactic application of Paul's argument for justification by faith, extending the principle demonstrated in Abraham's life to all believers in the New Covenant era. It declares that righteousness is imputed to those who place their faith in God, specifically in His power demonstrated through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, thereby establishing a universal and consistent pathway to a right standing with God, grounded in divine grace rather than human merit.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Romans chapter 4 is pivotal in Paul's theological exposition of justification by faith, building upon the foundational arguments in [Romans 1:18-3:20](/romans/1-18-3-20 "Romans 1:18-3:20 - The Universal Need for Righteousness") concerning humanity's universal sinfulness and the subsequent revelation of God's righteousness in [Romans 3:21-31](/romans/3-21-31 "Romans 3:21-31 - Righteousness Apart from the Law"). Paul introduces Abraham as the prime Old Testament example, demonstrating that Abraham was declared righteous by God not because of his works or adherence to the Law (which didn't yet exist), but solely because of his faith (as seen in [Romans 4:3](/romans/4-3 "Romans 4:3 - Abraham's Faith Counted as Righteousness"), quoting [Genesis 15:6](/genesis/15-6 "Genesis 15:6 - Abraham Believed God")). The preceding verses, [Romans 4:22-23](/romans/4-22-23 "Romans 4:22-23 - Abraham's Faith and Imputation"), explicitly state that Abraham's faith "was imputed to him for righteousness." Verse 24 then makes a crucial transition, applying this same principle directly to contemporary believers, emphasizing that Abraham's experience was not unique to him but served as a prototype for all who would believe in the God who raised Jesus.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In Paul's day, both Jewish and Gentile audiences held distinct views on achieving righteousness. For many Jews, righteousness was inextricably linked to adherence to the Mosaic Law, circumcision, and ethnic identity. The concept of "imputed righteousness" apart from these works was revolutionary and challenged deeply ingrained religious paradigms. Gentiles, on the other hand, often sought favor with deities through ritualistic acts, moral living, or philosophical pursuits. Paul's declaration that righteousness comes solely through faith in a crucified and resurrected Jewish Messiah, accessible to all regardless of ethnic or social background, radically redefined the path to salvation. The emphasis on God "raising up Jesus from the dead" was also a direct challenge to both Jewish skepticism about a crucified Messiah and Greco-Roman philosophical disdain for bodily resurrection.
* **Key Themes:** This verse encapsulates several major theological themes within Romans. Firstly, the **Imputation of Righteousness** is central, highlighting God's gracious act of crediting a sinner with Christ's righteousness, rather than demanding perfect adherence to the Law. This is distinct from earned righteousness. Secondly, **Faith as the Means** underscores that human belief, not human performance, is the instrument through which this divine declaration is received. Paul consistently contrasts faith with works throughout Romans, particularly in [Romans 3:28](/romans/3-28 "Romans 3:28 - Justification by Faith Apart from Works"). Thirdly, the **Object of Faith** is precisely defined: "him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead." This points to the absolute necessity of the resurrection of Christ as the definitive act of God validating Jesus' claims and His atoning work, as further explored in [1 Corinthians 15:17](/1_corinthians/15-17 "1 Corinthians 15:17 - The Futility of Faith Without Resurrection"). Finally, the phrase "for us also" establishes a profound **Continuity with Abraham**, demonstrating that God's method of dealing with humanity has always been consistent: salvation is by grace through faith, a truth foreshadowed in the life of the patriarch and fully revealed in Christ.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **imputed (Greek, _logízomai'_):** This word (G3049) is an accounting term meaning "to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively); to conclude, (ac-)count (of), credit, reckon, suppose, think (on)." In a theological context, it signifies a legal declaration or crediting of something to one's account. It emphasizes that righteousness is not inherently possessed or earned, but is graciously assigned or reckoned by God to the believer, much like a deposit in an account.
* **believe (Greek, _pisteúō'_):** This verb (G4100) means "to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to Christ)." It denotes a deep conviction, trust, and reliance upon the object of faith. It's not merely intellectual assent but a wholehearted commitment and surrender.
* **raised up (Greek, _egeírō'_):** This verb (G1453) means "to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from obscurity, inactivity, ruins, nonexistence); to awake, lift (up), raise (again, up), rear up, (a-)rise (again, up), stand, take up." In the context of Jesus, it specifically refers to God's act of bringing Him back to life from the dead, signifying divine power and victory over death.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed,"**: This opening clause establishes a direct parallel and extension from Abraham's experience to all believers. The conjunction "But" (G235, _allá'_) introduces a contrast or transition, shifting the focus from Abraham's specific case to its universal application. The phrase "for us also" (G1223, _diá_ G2248, _hēmâs_ G2532, _kaí_) emphasizes that the same divine principle of imputation applies to contemporary believers. The future tense "shall be imputed" (G3049, _logízomai'_ G3195, _méllō'_) highlights the certainty of this divine act for those who meet the condition.
* **"if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead;"**: This clause specifies the condition for imputation and the precise object of saving faith. The "if" (G1909, _epí_) here introduces the condition, not doubt, but rather the means by which the imputation occurs: through belief. The object of this belief is not merely a concept or a general deity, but specifically "him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead." This refers to God the Father, who demonstrated His ultimate power and validated Jesus' identity and work by resurrecting Him. The resurrection is presented as the cornerstone event that authenticates Jesus as "our Lord" (G2962, _kýrios'_), signifying His divine authority and sovereignty, and confirms the efficacy of His atoning sacrifice. The phrase "from the dead" (G1537, _ek_ G3498, _nekrós'_) underscores the completeness of Jesus' death and the miraculous nature of His rising.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several **Literary Devices** in this concise verse. The primary device is **Analogy**, as he draws a direct parallel between Abraham's justification and that of New Testament believers, using Abraham as a prototype to illustrate a universal principle. This is reinforced by the phrase "for us also," which functions as a device of **Inclusion**, broadening the scope of God's saving work. There is also a subtle **Contrast** implied with the preceding arguments against justification by works, positioning faith as the sole means. Furthermore, the verse functions as a powerful **Theological Statement**, succinctly summarizing the core of the gospel message: salvation is by faith in the God who resurrected Jesus. The precise identification of the object of faith ("him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead") adds a layer of **Specificity**, making the theological claim concrete and historically grounded.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Romans 4:24 is a theological linchpin, connecting the Old Testament revelation of God's character to the New Testament fulfillment in Christ. It underscores the profound truth that God's righteousness is not earned by human effort or adherence to external laws, but is freely given to those who respond in faith. This concept of imputed righteousness is foundational to the doctrine of justification by faith, emphasizing that salvation is entirely a work of God's grace. The specific focus on the resurrection of Jesus as the object of faith highlights its indispensable role in the gospel; it is the ultimate divine affirmation of Christ's identity, His victory over sin and death, and the efficacy of His atoning sacrifice. Without the resurrection, faith would be futile, and there would be no basis for the imputation of righteousness.

* [Romans 10:9](/romans/10-9 "Romans 10:9 - Confession and Belief for Salvation")
* [Galatians 2:16](/galatians/2-16 "Galatians 2:16 - Justification by Faith, Not Works")
* [1 Corinthians 15:17](/1_corinthians/15-17 "1 Corinthians 15:17 - The Futility of Faith Without Resurrection")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Romans 4:24 offers profound assurance and liberation to every believer. It dismantles the burden of striving for righteousness through personal performance, reminding us that our standing before God is not based on our works, but on His gracious declaration, received through faith. This truth should cultivate deep humility, recognizing that our salvation is a gift, not an achievement. It also directs our faith to its proper object: the living God who demonstrated His power and purpose in raising Jesus from the dead. This focus on the resurrection provides an unshakeable foundation for our hope, assuring us that if God could conquer death, He can certainly bring us into a right relationship with Himself and secure our eternal future. Embracing this truth frees us to live not *for* righteousness, but *from* righteousness, empowered by grace to live lives that reflect gratitude and love for the One who has justified us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the concept of "imputed righteousness" free you from the burden of trying to earn God's favor?**
* **In what ways does focusing on God's power in raising Jesus from the dead strengthen your faith and hope?**
* **How might understanding Romans 4:24 change your perspective on your daily struggles with sin or feelings of inadequacy?**
* **What practical steps can you take to deepen your trust in God's completed work through Christ, rather than relying on your own efforts?**

### FAQ
**What does "imputed" truly mean in this context, and why is it so important?**

Answer: "Imputed" (from the Greek _logízomai_) is an accounting term meaning to "credit," "reckon," or "attribute" something to someone's account. In Romans 4:24, it means that God legally declares and credits righteousness to believers, not because they have inherently achieved it through their own actions, but because of their faith. This concept is crucial because it highlights that our right standing with God is a divine gift, a legal declaration based on Christ's perfect righteousness, rather than an earned status. It underscores that salvation is by grace through faith, preventing any boasting in human merit (as seen in [Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")).

**Why is the resurrection of Jesus specifically mentioned as the object of our faith for imputation of righteousness?**

Answer: The resurrection of Jesus is central because it is God's ultimate validation of Christ's atoning work on the cross. If Jesus had not been raised, His death would have been merely that of a martyr, and His claims would have been unsubstantiated. However, by raising Him from the dead, God declared Jesus to be His Son with power, confirming that His sacrifice was fully accepted and effective in dealing with sin. Paul states in [Romans 4:25](/romans/4-25 "Romans 4:25 - Jesus Delivered for Our Offenses and Raised for Our Justification") that Jesus "was delivered up for our transgressions and raised for our justification." Our faith is therefore directed not merely at a historical event, but at the living God who conquered death through Christ, providing the living hope and power necessary for our justification and new life.

**How does our faith, as described in Romans 4:24, relate to Abraham's faith?**

Answer: Paul explicitly states "But for us also," drawing a direct parallel between Abraham's experience and that of New Testament believers. Abraham's faith in God's promise was "imputed to him for righteousness" ([Romans 4:3](/romans/4-3 "Romans 4:3 - Abraham's Faith Counted as Righteousness")). Similarly, our faith in the God who raised Jesus from the dead is the means by which righteousness is imputed to us. The core principle—justification by faith—remains consistent across dispensations. The difference lies in the specific object and fuller revelation: Abraham believed God's promise of a son and a nation, while we believe in the fulfillment of God's ultimate promise through the resurrection of Jesus, who is the promised Seed and the means of salvation for all nations ([Galatians 3:8](/galatians/3-8 "Galatians 3:8 - Gospel Preached to Abraham")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Romans 4:24 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, particularly in His resurrection. While Abraham's faith looked forward to God's promises, our faith, as outlined here, looks back to and rests upon the completed work of Christ. Jesus is not merely the example of faith, but the very object and enabler of the faith that justifies. It is through His perfect obedience, His sacrificial death on the cross for our sins, and supremely, His triumphant resurrection from the dead, that God's righteousness is made available for imputation. The resurrection of Jesus is the divine seal of approval on His atoning work, demonstrating His victory over sin and death, and confirming His identity as "our Lord." As [Romans 5:18-19](/romans/5-18-19 "Romans 5:18-19 - Righteousness Through Christ") explains, just as sin came through one man, Adam, so righteousness and life come through one man, Jesus Christ. He became sin for us "that we might become the righteousness of God in Him" ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Became Sin for Us")). Therefore, when we believe on the God who raised Jesus, we are not simply performing a mental exercise; we are trusting in the finished work of Christ, whose resurrection guarantees our justification and new life, making us righteous in God's sight, not by our own merit, but by His perfect, imputed righteousness. Our faith is a response to God's gracious act in Christ, leading to a profound union with Him, where His righteousness becomes ours ([Philippians 3:9](/philippians/3-9 "Philippians 3:9 - Righteousness from God by Faith")).

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

Acts 2:24

Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.

1 Peter 1:21

Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

Acts 13:30

But God raised him from the dead:

Romans 10:9

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Romans 10:10

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

Acts 2:39

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as the Lord our God shall call.

Ephesians 1:18

The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,