How does Paul's description of the ungodly in Romans 4:5 affect our understanding of who can be justified?

Romans 4:5 says God justifies the ungodly, which means justification is grace for people who cannot present a worthy record. Paul contrasts wages earned by work with righteousness counted to the one who trusts God.

Passage context

Paul is explaining Abraham's faith and then widening the point. If righteousness were earned, it would be a wage. Instead, God counts righteousness to the person who trusts him.

Why it matters

This protects the scandal and comfort of grace. Romans says God does not wait for sinners to become impressive before justifying them.

Read carefully

A careful reading should not treat this verse to make sin harmless. Romans 6 will reject continuing in sin. Romans 4 explains the basis of justification, not permission to remain unchanged.

Keep reading

• Romans 4 1 8
• Romans 6 1 2
• Questions Romans What Does Romans Say About Being Justified By Faith Apart From Works