1. Righteousness by faith, not by circumcision nor the law (9-15)

Many Jews thought that being circumcised or keeping God's law made them righteous before God. Circumcision started with Abraham. But Abraham was credited by God with righteousness for his faith (Gen 15:6), not for circumcision, which came later (Gen 17). So Abraham is the spiritual father of all who have faith, whether Jew or Gentile (11-12). Abraham's faith blessed him, his family and the world.

2. Resurrection faith (16-25)

Abraham means "father of many." God made him a "father of many nations." He is the father of-not just Jews, but of all who believe in God's promises. Abraham had faith in the power of God, even to give an old man and his barren old wife a child. It was resurrection faith. Our resurrection faith is in Jesus Christ who died for our sins and rose again. All who believe this are credited with righteousness.