Legalism's Trap

by E.L.

What do you do when you're told that what you know is true is a lie? Most often the reaction is to distrust one's self. If one cannot trust himself who can he trust? No one, not even God.

The Christian group 'Housefires' composed a great song titled "Good, Good Father." The first verse is:

"Oh, I've heard a thousand stories of what they think you're like
But I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night
And you tell me that you're pleased
And that I'm never alone"

That verse is followed by the refrain "You're a good, good Father."

Legalism is a form of idolatry. It sculpts God into a disapproving monster. It reduces God to rules and regulations. It strips Him of His love, mercy, and compassion.

Our heart, and the Bible, tell us that God is love...that He casts out fear...but too often someone in authority manipulates us to fear more than love Him. We tend to run from things we fear, so legalism's lie puts distance between us and our Father. Over time communication breaks down. All that is left is a shrill satanic voice masquerading in religious robes.

Jesus spoke about this in Matthew 18:6. He said "But if you cause one of these little ones who TRUSTS in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to have a large millstone tied around your neck and be drowned in the depths of the sea."

In various translations the word substitute for "Sin" is offense. In a literal sense to offend was to tempt, or to bait a trap for, someone. That's what legalism does.

Don't fall for it.

Read Parts One, Two and Three.

This writing is the copyright of E.L. and is reprinted on this site by permission. View all of his available articles here.

Page added May 2, 2016

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