De Maria says:
Excellent response, John. I just want to highlight one of your comments. You said:
Just one more point before I wrap this up. Joey, how can you know you are in a state of justice with God? If Abraham was not justified during the years preceeding Gen. 15:6 I have to ask what is faith? This is after Abram trusted in God and left his people, called on the name of the Lord (a very common biblical phrase requesting God’s favor including salvation) , was blessed by Melchisedek and called Abram of God most high. My point is if Abraham was not righteous by faith before God until Gen. 15:6, how can you possibly know if you are?
Bearing in mind that ST. PAUL says that Abraham was faithful from the moment that God called him:
Hebrews 11:8
King James Version (KJV)
8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
Hebrews 11:8
King James Version (KJV)
8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
So, John, your point is absolutely devastating to any faith “alone” proponent. If Abraham were justified by faith “alone”, he would have been justified in Gen 12:4!
Sincerely,
De Maria
