Romans 4:25

The context

This line closes Paul's argument from Abraham, who was reckoned righteous by faith before he was circumcised and before the law existed. The verse reads like a formula the church already used, with two parallel clauses and a rhythmic shape. It also leads directly into the peace and hope that open chapter five.

What it establishes

The death and resurrection are held together as the ground of salvation, and the verse assigns a purpose to each. It also shows Paul drawing on traditional material rather than composing everything fresh.

What it does not establish

The force of the prepositions is disputed. Whether Christ was raised because of our justification or for the sake of it turns on a small word, and the formula is too compressed to settle the order of salvation on its own.

Short note, first pass, October 2026. Corrections welcome.

Cited in these answers

• How exactly does the death of Jesus secure salvation for anyone when the deaths of countless others matter not a bit in this regard?

Part of Scripture, Opened — the exegetical layer behind every citation on this site. Scripture quotations are from the ESV.