I have discovered while studying this subject that this is a very complex issue. It is very hard to study God's Word free of our pre-suppositions.  And often times I find myself wondering at what appears to be contradictions in God's Word. Let me give you an example:

             Romans 4:1-4  What shall we say then that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the flesh, hath found?

² For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.

³ For what saith the script...