Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Legalism and Grace

A dear friend of mine, RH, is one of the few men whose walk in Christ is inspirational and noteworthy. A while ago he sent out this email, which really struck a chord within me. After reading it, I felt so convicted about how little I understood about Christ, and how little I really knew the freedom of his grace. Here's the beginning, and some of the ones that resonated with me. (You can join Grace Rising and receive his posts here)
The comedian, Jeff Foxworthy, has gained worldwide fame for his "...you might be a redneck" jokes. Here is a take-off on his routine, referring instead to "...you might be a legalist."

These are the some of the ones I ticked off – (and some of them I'm just still thinking about....musing over them, thinking things like – there's another way to think about this? Really? Go ahead, read the list and see. What resonates with you?)

  • If you think that God's Law can effect right living...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think that a man can keep God's principles and precepts...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think that there is a right answer and right action for every circumstance (if you could just take the time to figure it out)...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think that obedience is doing what the rules indicate...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you feel frustrated and defeated in that you just don't seem to be able to do it all right and perfect...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you are burdened by self-condemnation for your failures in life...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think the 10 commandments are still authoritative for Christians today...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think that abstinence is a virtue...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think that tithing is the standard for Christian giving...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you've ever felt guilty for driving up in a new car, or buying a new dress, or even a new home...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you've ever tried to impose your perspective of modesty on another...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you men have ever felt condemned for having taken a second look at a beautiful woman (in a short skirt)...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you think that Christians shouldn't practice birth control...then you might be a legalist.
  • If you've ever taken off jewelry or wiped off make-up to capitulate to another's religious scruples...then you might be a legalist
  • If you've ever looked down upon another for their living arrangements...then you might be a legalist.

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