Post Modern Legalism

Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh? Galations 3:3

I know that when Paul talks about *the law* he is talking about the OT laws adhered to by the Jews. No pork or shrimp, gotta wash your hands a certain way and keep the Sabbath, be circumcised on the 8th day yada yada yada. That's legalism, I know that, but I cant read about Pauls pleas to the Jews to ditch legalism without thinking about ...well... some of the circles I am affiliated with.

So many parallels between OT laws and our current religious standards, maybe not so much parallels in the actual rituals or ordinances but the spirit and pride behind them. Like a standard or rule can actually impress our Holy God. (roll eyes)

Colossians 2:23
These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person's evil desires.

Take out the word/idea law in the following scriptures and replace it with rules/standards. Replace this Jewish legalism with whatever it is you think makes you holy. Homeschooling? Long skirts? A plain face? A large family with matching jumpers? Even reading, fasting and prayer O my! Whatever you think makes you righteous. Read these scriptures and see if your efforts are enough?

Abraham believed God and it was counted unto him for righteousness, he had faith. Thats IT. Faith. Some things never change.....


“...by works of the law NO ONE will be justified” (Galations 2:16)

“...if righteousness were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose” (Galations 2:21)

“...No one is justified before God by the law...” (Galations3:11)

"...Those who rely on standards are cursed!...(Galations 3:10)

“...if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law” (Galations3:21)

“...the law as our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith” (Galations 3:24).

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage” (Galations 5:1).