Romans 4:2

For if Abraham got righteousness by works, he has reason for pride; but not before God.

Bible in Basic English

In The King James Version

For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.

In Context

1What, then, may we say that Abraham, our father after the flesh, has got?

3But what does it say in the holy Writings? And Abraham had faith in God, and it was put to his account as righteousness.

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Cross References

Genesis 12:18Then Pharaoh sent for Abram, and said, What have you done to me? why did you not say that she was your wife?

Genesis 20:9Then Abimelech sent for Abraham, and said, What have you done to us? what wrong have I done you that you have put on me and on my kingdom so great a sin? You have done to me things which are not to be done.

Jeremiah 9:23This is the word of the Lord: Let not the wise man take pride in his wisdom, or the strong man in his strength, or the man of wealth in his wealth:

Romans 3:20Because by the works of the law no man is able to have righteousness in his eyes, for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.

1 Corinthians 1:29So that no flesh might have glory before God.

1 Corinthians 4:7For who made you better than your brother? or what have you that has not been given to you? but if it has been given to you, what cause have you for pride, as if it had not been given to you?

Matthew Henry on Romans 4:2-9

The Case of Abraham. ( a. d. 58.) 1 What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found? 2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God. 3 For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. 4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6 Even as… Read the whole commentary →

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