I hope EVERYONE reaches saving faith--yes, including the most heinous--though I know only a minority will. So, I begin by rooting for Crazy Neb.
Next, I stipulate that we will never KNOW until we reach heaven ourselves. But you didn't ask what we know, but what we think.
The seven years of Neb's unhoused madness are as severe an ordeal as God is ever likely to impose. God's humbling of him had several obvious purposes. It was a cautionary tale to everyone, duly recorded in a famous venue for all to see. But God cares for every person and does everything He can to reach them. Neb's grandiosity took a full seven years to break.
That investment ostensibly paid off: Sane-again Neb's public testimony revealed his abject humiliation and newfound deep, reasoned belief. I agree with your student. I am as big and vile a sinner as anyone, and those who join me in claiming God's gracious salvation are my kin: Brother Neb.
“You addressed your inquiry to yourself. A new version of the Socratic method?”
Heh. I love the Socratic method, especially when debating. But I addressed everyone who reads it.
Yes, I hope that Neb is saved too. The student convinced me of his journey from chapters 2 to 3 to 4. Each time his reaction toward God is more intense.
We’ll know everyone’s state eventually. God’s judgment will be public and detailed and just.