One story that runs through the whole Bible. Redemption.
1. Righteous come by faith alone. (v3) Not an accounting procedure. It is a gift (v4). He 'gifts' us heaven. Who does He justify? The wicked (v5).
2. What is faith? Dictionary definition is wrong - in the Bible it is to trust or rely. Faith is always in something. Biblical faith is always in God (v3, 18). God has the power to do what He promised. He promises us (v25) - our justification is in Jesus.
Implications (a) No boasting on our part. (b) It removes fear of 'have we done enough'. (Don't rely on our feelings. We are free from our own self-judgement. Reflect on things that are certain.)
3. Abraham is the model how God deals with people, not the law. Righteousness is a gift received through faith (v13)
