The Apostle Paul is adamant that Abraham was NOT justified by works, but rather by faith. James teaches that Abraham WAS justified by works when he offered up Isaac as a sacrifice. Who is right? Or are they both right? Both quote the same verse in defense of their position, "Abraham believed God and it was reckoned unto him as righteousness." (Gen. 15:6)This has caused much confusion over the years. Are we justified by faith alone or by faith and works? The answer is found in the two different ways "justified" is used. Paul uses the word in the sense of being "declared righteous" while James uses the word in the sense of "validation" of that righteous claim. Paul and James are teaching the same thing. We are justified by the work of Christ through faith. And this justification is evidenced through loving obedience, exemplified by the account of Abraham and Isaac. The New Testament is adamant as it pertains to all aspects of salvation, "Let he who boasts, boast in the Lord." (1 Cor. 1:31; 2 Cor. 10:17; Eph. 2:9)
SERMON ACTIVITY
This PDF text was last viewed: 13 days ago | more »
Featuring a sermon puts it on the front page of the site and is the most effective way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands including all mobile platforms + newsletter.
Text-Featuring a sermon is a less expensive way to bring this sermon to the attention of thousands on the right bar with optional newsletter inclusion. As low as $30/day.
“ Great Sermon! ” We thoroughly enjoyed this sermon....as well as had a few mirthful moments also....love the sense of humor. We appreciated the clarity of faith/works, and the comments on Luther....(I am the m other of Jessica Meaux)
Shane Kastler serves as Pastor of Heritage Baptist Church in Lake Charles, Louisiana. An Oklahoma native, Shane is a graduate of Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (M.Div.) and Northeastern State University (B.B.A.). In addition to pastoring, he writes a weekly religion...
