What motivates your Christianity—legalism or love?
Legalism is a word that is often misused. It's sometimes used to discredit Christians who speak up for God's commands or refuse to compromise their faith. That's not legalism. God expects us to do those things.
Those who are motivated by genuine legalism:
1. Ignore Romans 14 which tells us not to judge other believers for their non-essentials beliefs. There are essential beliefs that are non-negotiable, but there are also denominational differences and other non-essential beliefs that shouldn't separate Bible-believing Christians.
2. Do things to look good on the outside (Matthew 6:1) but remain unchanged on the inside (Matthew 23:25).
3. Compare themselves with others and feel superior (2 Corinthians 10:12).
Those who are motivated by love:
1. Graciously defend God's loving commands (Colossians 4:6; 1 Peter 3:15)
2. Keep a clear conscience before God (Hebrews 13:18).
3. Judge themselves by God's standards (Romans 12:3).
If we love Christ it will be our heart's desire to obey Him (John 14:21).
“May [our] roots go down deep into the soil of God’s marvelous love” so everything we do is done in love (Ephesians 3:17).
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BLN
Yup, good summation Gail. My husband as a boy, saw what a legalistic church did to his aunt. Even as a child, he understood they treated her wrong. He is a pastor now and I believe some of his childhood experiences, helped shape the kind of preacher he is today. Thank you for your Ministry. It touches so many lives. ~ Abby
ReplyDeleteI love how God can use a negative experience to shape us. I'm glad your husband can use his aunt's bad experiences for good. And thanks so much, Abby, for your encouragement. : )
DeleteGail