Was Abraham justified by his works or by faith alone?
Abraham was justified by faith plus nothing, not by works. Romans 4:2 gives the conditional: if Abraham were justified by works, he would have reason to glory, but never before God. It was not that Abraham had accomplished so much or was such a great individual.
Les teaches that even Abraham, the great man of faith who waited years and years for the promises, was justified by faith plus nothing. It was not that Abraham had accomplished so much or was such a great individual. Romans 4:2 says that if Abraham were justified by works—by what he could accomplish or earn—then he would have reason to glory or brag, but never before God. God will not allow anyone, not even a man like Abraham, to come to the place of bragging about what he has done for God. In fact, while Abraham was waiting, he failed miserably and fell flat on his face.
For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
If Abraham was justified by works, what would that have meant according to Romans 4:2?
If Abraham were justified by works, it would mean his justification rested on what he could accomplish or earn by his own effort. Romans 4:2 indicates that would give him reason to glory or brag, but never before God, since no one can boast before God.
Was Abraham justified before God because of his great faith and accomplishments?
No. Abraham was not justified before God by his accomplishments or works. Romans 4:2 says if Abraham were justified by works, he would have reason to glory, but never before God. His justification was faith plus nothing; even while waiting, he failed miserably.