Originally Posted by Lynda
Does Genesis 22:12 suggest that God is not ominiscient and not sovereign? Please remember that I'm not arguing against those attributes of God. I'm seeking information in order to defend the faith.

"Now I know," says the Lord, "that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son..." may seem to suggest that God didn't know Abraham's heart until this test.

The Apostle James helps clarify this a little in his epistle:

Quote
Was not Abraham justified by works when he offered up Isaac his son on the altar? You see that faith was working with his works, and as a result of the works, faith was perfected... (James 2:21-22)

I think this shows the test had more to do with strengthening Abraham's faith and assurance in God than it did with providing God with an opportunity to "learn something He didn't know."

Great questions, by the way, and I'm glad you asked it!