Romans 4:21

And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

And {G2532} being fully persuaded {G4135} that {G3754}, what {G3739} he had promised {G1861}, he was {G2076} able {G1415} also {G2532} to perform {G4160}.

for he was fully convinced that what God had promised he could also accomplish.

being fully persuaded that God was able to do what He had promised.

and being fully assured that what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

Commentary

This verse concludes Paul's point about Abraham's faith, highlighting the core of his belief: an unwavering confidence in God's ability to fulfill His promises.

Context

Romans chapter 4 focuses on Abraham as the prime example of justification by faith, not by works of the law. Paul argues that Abraham's faith was credited to him as righteousness long before the law was given and before circumcision was a sign of the covenant. The preceding verses detail the seemingly impossible circumstances Abraham faced regarding God's promise of descendants (Romans 4:19) – his own body was "dead" (as good as dead) and Sarah's womb was barren. Despite these insurmountable natural obstacles, Abraham did not waver in his belief. Verse 21 encapsulates the strength and nature of that faith.

Key Themes

  • Faith in God's Promises: The verse emphasizes Abraham's absolute trust in what God had spoken. His faith was directed towards the specific promise given to him.
  • God's Ability and Power: Central to Abraham's persuasion was his conviction that God was not only willing but also able to perform what He promised. This speaks to God's omnipotence.
  • Full Assurance: The phrase "fully persuaded" implies a complete lack of doubt. Abraham was totally convinced of God's faithfulness and power, leading to deep inner certainty.
  • Basis for Righteousness: This verse, along with the surrounding text, shows that this kind of faith – believing in God's power to fulfill His word – is the basis upon which God reckoned righteousness to Abraham (Romans 4:3).

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "fully persuaded" translates the Greek word plērophorētheis (πληροφορηθείς). This is a strong word meaning "to be fully assured," "to be completely convinced," or "to be filled with." It suggests a deep-seated, complete conviction that leaves no room for doubt. It's not just intellectual ascent but a settled confidence in the heart.

Reflection

Abraham's faith serves as a powerful model for believers today. Just as Abraham faced humanly impossible circumstances yet believed God was able to perform His promise, we are called to trust in God's ability to fulfill His promises to us, including the promise of salvation through Christ and His power working in our lives. Our faith should rest not on our circumstances or abilities, but on the unchanging character and infinite power of God. This assurance that God is able is fundamental to a confident walk of faith.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 1:37 (23 votes)

    For with God nothing shall be impossible.

  • Hebrews 11:19 (16 votes)

    Accounting that God [was] able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.

  • Jeremiah 32:17 (16 votes)

    Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, [and] there is nothing too hard for thee:

  • Genesis 18:14 (16 votes)

    Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.

  • Luke 1:45 (15 votes)

    And blessed [is] she that believed: for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.

  • Jeremiah 32:27 (15 votes)

    Behold, I [am] the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?

  • 2 Timothy 1:12 (15 votes)

    For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.