Bible Basics

Abraham's Justification

As we continue our study of James’ discussion of saving faith, consider the following rhetorical question: “Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar?” (James 2:21) The word rendered “justified” (edikaiothe) means “to pronounce or declare one to be just.” Since “all have sinned” (Rom. 3:23), by necessity justification requires pardon. To be sure, Abraham was a man of faith, a point James stresses as he quotes Gen. 15:6, “Abraham believed God, and it was imputed to him for righteousness” (James 2:23). But Abraham’s faith is not at issue, for James uses Abraham to illustrate the truth “that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only” (v. 24). But notice the language: “Was not Abraham our father justified by works?” The preposition “by” (ex), which means “out of,” points to the source of Abraham’s justification. It was “out of” Abraham’s obedience in offering Isaac that justification came, not by means of obedience. In other words, the works were not efficacious or meritorious in that Abraham earned his justification. But rather, we must remember only God can justify (forgive), and He does so “out of” works in that when one acts in faith, He issues the verdict. Only when the works He prescribes are done in faith does He justify.

                                                                                                               -- Clark Dugger

Bible Basics