What is legalism?

Don't be so sure. Issues that relate to versions, theology, salvation, pastoral ministries, general discussions, and the like are off limits because there is already a forum for those things.

(edited to include the fact that Fundamentalists have no business talking about any of those issues - just my two cents)

 

What is legalism? It's when anything is added to salvation to make it valid to people who don't believe that you can get to Heaven, by accepting a free gift of salvation through faith alone. Or in other words, it's the belief that you have to work for salvation. The Bible is very specific about this being incorrect theology.

This is a very good illustration of legalism. Acts 15.
"And certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, and said Except ye be circumcised after te manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.... I won't quote the entire chapter, but suffice it to say that these men were rebuked for this legalism as being in error and contradictory to salvation by faith alone.

I believe Wisdom Seeker already mentioned this illustration. It's the one that my Pastor used to explain "legalism" to our congregation too.

God Bless You,
Charlotte

 

I'm with Laurenda, I have on my rose-colored glasses. I think the world is a beautiful place created by God for us. We do not have to seek out the evil that is there. I know it is there, but I am going to keep my part of this world, beautiful with love for my family, my friends and the people here on this Board.

This is off the subject. I don't get into the labels because actually, I just can't keep them straight. I know that I am saved because Jesus died for me and forgave me of my sins and I will do my very best to worship and serve Him.

Sorry, Murph, I will fade away now into my rosy world.

 

Oh Betty, you are so sweet.

I don't think Laurenda looks at life through rose colored glasses at all. If anyone has seen the darker uglier side of life, it has been her. And through all of her trials, she still maintains an optomistic outlook of what God has given us...his blessings, his grace, his love.

She's not a false teacher. She shares what she believes taken from the word of God...like the illustration of circumcision earlier.

She once said "I can be thankful for everything, even the trials because I've learned something valuable...compassion" This inspired me, and that is why I remember it. Because I remember saying to myself "That's grace"

Bro. Murphy, I hope you let this stay. It's meant to edify and encourage. God is the God of second chances. (and third, fourth etc...how ever many it takes) I hope that the people who got so upset earlier at each other will accept my humble prayer for them. I'm praying for you.

God Bless You,
Charlotte

 

Thank you, Charlotte. I totally agree with you about Laurenda. I really admire her.