Romans 4:20 (KJV)

What does Romans 4:20 mean?

Romans 4:20 says that Abraham did not waver or hesitate because of unbelief when God made him a promise, but instead, his faith grew stronger and he honored God. The verse highlights Abraham’s unwavering trust in God’s word, even when the promise seemed impossible from a human point of view.

Paul is writing to Christians in Rome, using Abraham as an example of genuine faith. The situation Paul describes is when God promised Abraham descendants, even though Abraham was old and had no children. The verse shows that Abraham’s faith did not weaken, but actually became stronger, and this brought glory to God.

The Greek behind Romans 4:20

• "staggered" (διεκρίθη, diakrinō): This Greek word often means to doubt, hesitate, or waver. Paul is emphasizing that Abraham did not let uncertainty or inner conflict shake his confidence in God’s promise.
• "unbelief" (ἀπιστία, apistia): This word means lack of faith or trust. The verse points out that Abraham’s response was not marked by distrust or skepticism.
• "strong" (ἐνεδυναμώθη, enedynamōthē): This word means to be empowered or strengthened. Rather than growing weaker, Abraham’s faith became more robust as he trusted God.
• "giving glory" (δοὺς δόξαν, dous doxan): This phrase means to honor or praise God. Abraham’s strong faith was not just private confidence; it resulted in actions and attitudes that honored God.

Why Romans 4:20 matters

• Romans 4:20 clears up the idea that faith means never having doubts; instead, it shows that true faith can grow stronger even when circumstances seem impossible.
• The verse highlights that Abraham’s faith was not passive—his trust in God led him to honor God actively, which is central to Paul’s point about what real faith looks like.
• This verse connects Abraham’s story to Paul’s larger argument in Romans 4, showing that righteousness comes by faith, not by human effort or perfect circumstances.