How can we know from the scriptures that the patriarchs were justified by faith?
Orientation
Many assume the patriarchs were justified by their obedience or law-keeping, creating uncertainty about the ground of our own standing before God.
- The question is not academic; it touches the very heart of the gospel.
- If justification were ever by works, the entire structure of assurance collapses.
- Scripture provides clear, unbreakable testimony to resolve this.
For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. (Romans 4:3)
— Romans 4:3
Clarification
The patriarchs' works were not the cause of their justification but the evidence of a righteousness they already possessed by faith.
- Works are a sign, not a cause.
- Their obedience was the fruit of faith, not the root of righteousness.
- To introduce works as a means is to forfeit justification entirely.
Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. (Romans 4:6)
— Romans 4:6
Structure
God established a single, unchanging principle of imputing righteousness to those who believe, a pattern consistent from Abraham through to the present.
- Justification is God's act of crediting righteousness to the ungodly who believe.
- This principle operates apart from any law or system of works.
- The patriarchs stand as witnesses against every scheme of self-righteousness.
Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. (Galatians 3:7)
— Galatians 3:7
Weight-Bearing Prose
Pauline revelation in Romans 4 and Galatians 3 is definitive: the patriarchs were justified by faith alone. The cause and effect is explicit: Abraham believed God, and righteousness was counted to him. This imputation of righteousness is categorically ‘without works.’ God’s method of dealing with sinners has never changed. Justification is not contingent on law-keeping or meritorious deeds; it is solely on the basis of faith’s trust in God’s promise. The Law, when it came, did not alter this foundational principle. Any attempt to establish justification through works is a rejection of grace and places one under a curse, making Christ of no effect. The patriarchs’ subsequent works were merely signs and fruit of their already justified status, demonstrating the theological logic that works are evidence, never the instrumental cause, of righteousness.
Integration
The testimony of the patriarchs anchors us. Their justification by faith alone is our assurance. The same God who counted Abraham righteous counts you righteous when you believe. There is no pressure to perform, no hierarchy of maturity, and no hidden condition. Your standing is as settled as Abraham’s was—secured by God’s imputation, not your effort. Christ is your righteousness. Rest in the finished work and the unchanging principle of grace. This is your ground, your inheritance, and your confidence.