Legalism just means someone who keeps the law.God doesn't want that from His people rather He desires relationship. I think sometimes we categorize those who strictly adhere to an outward standard/rule as a legalist but really anyone can fall into the trap of trying to win His favor through human efforts. Even a good ol' Baptist may think that if they pray enough they can make it to heaven. A Catholic may think that reciting a ritualistic prayer and lighting candles may earn heaven or at least purgatory.
Conservatives think that long sleeves and abstaining from "I Love Lucy" make us holy enough. We are often very serious about the Lord and therefore choose to live a separate life, unfortunately if we fail to remember that our efforts are but filthy rags then we are no better than the Pharisees. Our standards have to be a fruit of the heart, adhered to because we love Him and others. A bowed heart will indeed bear precious fruit, problem is many are trying to hang good lookin' fruit on dead dried up trees.
He is enough.
Luke 11:42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
GT well said. You say love is the most important ingredient in this relationship, and I agree. And ironically, in many ways Pentecost has defined itself not by love, but by a word we made up called "standards." Between "love" and "standards", which has the most preeminence in our churches and time spent? Which has divided fellowships and caused unnecessary weights and burdens?
ReplyDeleteIn contrast, which is best for true Christian growth, which begins in the soil before it ever becomes fruit? And that fruit is our humility, patience, kindness, gentleness, modesty, etc We've decided to take the pen and add to that list our own ideas so things look more tidy, when in reality they cheapen and tarnish such depth by declaring certain minimums.
Interesting. I would get in on this one, but it would be quite an investment. Subjects like this online tend to be futile and time-consuming.
ReplyDeleteWhen God got ready to turn the world upside down He chose a legalistic Pharisee to do it. Of course Paul had to have a serious conversion of the heart. Perhaps God is choosing men in Pentecost, sincere men who will indeed preach love and GRACE and unity!!
ReplyDeleteI personally am excited about the Kingdom coming.Much of the New Testament was Paul working to unify the Jews and gentiles. I see so many similarities in our own modern times. Those that feel they have liberty to *eat meat and celebrate Holidays* and then we have the legalist over in this corner who think hanging out in the Temples of idols is a no-no. I think there are many *Apostle Pauls* within our movement.
Shalom shalom... your blog has been awarded @
ReplyDeletehttp://bestchristianblogoftheweek.blogspot.com/