What then shall we say was gained by Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? 2 For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. 3 For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness.” 4 Now to the one who works, his wages are not counted as a gift but as his due. 5 And to the one who does not work but believes in him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is counted as righteousness, 6 just as David also speaks of the blessing of the one to whom God counts righteousness apart from works:  7 “Blessed are those whose lawless deeds are forgiven, and whose sins are covered; 8 blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.”Romans 4:1-8

A. Counted Righteous: Our Position Declared by God

1. A Position Not Earned by Works

Rom. 4:1-2, Eph. 2:8-10, 1 Cor. 1:30-31

2. A Position Freely Given as a Gift

Rom. 4:4, Rom. 3:23-24, Rom. 5:15-18, 2 Cor. 9:15, John 3:16

B. Counted Righteous: Our Response to God

1. Believe God for who He is

Rom. 4:3, Heb. 11:6, James 2:19, Rom. 4:20-22

2. Believe God for what He promises

Rom. 4:5-8, Rom. 3:23-25, 2 Peter 1:3-4, Heb.11:13, Heb. 11:39-40