Post Tenebras Lux

Lay Aside the Fear of Legalism

This article highlights the difference between legalism and spiritual discipline. A habit such as forcing ourselves to pray before a meal is spiritual discipline, not legalism. The key is that the practice, properly done, is not a means of earning favor or salvation, but a means of growing in our union with Christ.

This fear of legalism can cause us to not do things that would benefit us in our race (Hebrews 1:1–2). We should not only try not to sin; we should also positively take any action that will help us run the race.

Quotes

  • Legalism stems from putting confidence in our own efforts and abilities, producing pride and self-righteousness. Discipline, on the other hand, recognizes that we are already fully accepted by God through faith alone, and that we need to depend on the power of the Spirit, and exert effort to strive toward holiness, producing freedom and joy as we grow in godliness.

  • Ask the maximal righteousness question, not the minimal righteousness question…

    If you have that mentality about your life, then you will ask not, “How many sins can I avoid?” but “How many weights can I lay down so that I am fleet-footed in the race of righteousness?”