In this verse, the apostle Paul addresses a fundamental question about who can receive God's blessing of righteousness. The context is a discussion about faith and the law, particularly concerning the Jewish practice of circumcision, which was a sign of the covenant between God and Abraham's descendants. Paul points out that Abraham was considered righteous because of his faith before he was circumcised. This historical fact serves as a powerful argument that righteousness through faith is not restricted to those who follow Jewish customs but is available to all people, Jew and Gentile alike.
Paul's message is revolutionary in its inclusivity. It breaks down barriers between different groups and emphasizes that faith, not ritual or heritage, is the key to a right relationship with God. This teaching is foundational for understanding the Christian doctrine of justification by faith, which asserts that belief in God's promises, as exemplified by Abraham, is what makes one righteous in God's eyes. This principle is central to the Christian message that salvation is a gift of grace accessible to everyone, transcending cultural and religious boundaries.