"The Lure of Legalism"

 

Galatians 5:1 "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith CHRIST hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."

     Paul's letter to the Galatian believers is a warning concerning the dangers of legalism. Judaizers had infiltrated the churches of Galatia and were preaching "another gospel" of works as opposed to the true Gospel of grace (Galatians 1:6-9 pictured above). Today, Paul's warning is just as necessary and relevant. Two kinds of legalism exist. The first emphasizes the requirement of works in order to be saved. The second stresses the need for works in order to be "spiritual" or acceptable to GOD as a Christian. Legalism in this sense entails the belief that as long as one follows a set of man-made rules, he can feel confident that he is truly a "spiritual" person - regardless of whether he is actually abiding in CHRIST. Paul addressed both aspects of legalism in this letter to the Galatians, and he corrects this error in other epistles as well (Romans 10:4; 14:1-23; Colossians 2:20-23).

     Why are many Christians so captivated by legalism ? First, it strokes man's pride - rather than abiding in CHRIST and humbly allowing GOD's WORD to convict and bring them to spiritual maturity, they want a system by which they can measure their "success." Second, some are so enamored with a particular religious leader that they prefer to follow the teachings and rules of a person rather than GOD HIMSELF. Third, many are not grounded in the essence of true, biblical Christianity. Therefore, they are easily "carried about with every wind of doctrine" (Ephesians 4:14 pictured above). Finally, legalism is alluring to some because it is easy to follow a list of "do's" and "don'ts" but requires "study" to "rightly divide" GOD's WORD (2nd.Timothy 2:15 pictured above). Beware of legalism ! Our salvation is not only rooted in grace, but we also are to grow in this grace unto maturity in CHRIST JESUS. MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation