Greg Chandler
05/15/17
It was one of those awkward situations. A comedian billing her performance as clean comedy attracted a number of Christians interested in the same. Though her jokes proved risqué at times, surely in comparison to the world’s concept of entertainment she did view herself as clean. Sadly, however, she used her public platform to swat and swipe at religious beliefs she deemed unappealing. Though cleverly guised in humor, she belittled people serious about doing the right things in life. Having grown up in what she considered a legalist denomination, her spiritual “maturity” had brought her to see that as long as you seek to please God, the details make little difference. She echoed this point over and over in word, in song accompanied by instrument, and in prayer which she led for the audience, addressing the Father in Heaven as “Abba Daddy.” Welcome to postmodern America.
Is Legalism Bad?
“Legalism” is a term thrown around lightly these days and one typically used to make a negative impression. The definition found in most modern dictionaries is akin to this: “strict adherence, or the principle of strict adherence, to law or prescription, especially to the letter rather than the spirit” (dictionary.com). The negative aspect of legalism is seen in the final words of the definition and occurs when one obeys a law, yet has no real concern for the motive behind it. The Pharisees of Jesus’ days on earth were of this ilk and often drew the Lord’s wrath. Matthew 23—perhaps the New Testament’s fieriest sermon—reveals the Lord’s displeasure with such an attitude. Legalism had brought this group to practice religion for man’s praise, thus catapulting themselves to self-appointed positions of godhood. They were convinced that Heaven was attained by their own good merits, completely ignoring the grace and mercy of God readily revealed and absolutely essential for salvation. The twenty-first century is not barren of this mindset. There are “religious” people who channel the Pharisee attitude toward religion and thus practice the law with complete disregard for the spirit behind it.
Note, however, the initial portion of legalism’s meaning: “strict adherence, or the principle of strict adherence, to law or prescription.” While one is saved by the grace of God, adherence to the laws of God is essential to please Him. It is not that a Christian blindly follows laws, but instead eagerly obeys the commands of God in order to “be holy as [He is] holy” (I Peter 1:16). Every law from God is cherished, studied, and applied by the one who seeks to be like Him. Like the psalmist, the prayer is made to “Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart” (Psalm 119:34). One, therefore, does not run from the concept of “works” in religion for the very reason that God instructed His follower to “work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12b). It is not work for the sake of works; instead, it is because “God works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure” (2:13). One, therefore, maintains strict adherence to the commands of God so that God can accomplish the work He has promised to perform in bringing one to holiness.
Postmodern Snags
In the attempt to avoid “legalism” at all costs, the modern era has seen its share of folk flee to the opposite end of the religious spectrum. Though not the most professional source, a statement from Wikipedia well summarizes this postmodern view of religion: “A postmodern interpretation of religion emphasizes the key point that religious truth is highly individualistic, subjective and resides within the individual” (Postmodernism). In many ways, it is the antithesis of the modern concept of legalism and transfers attention away from “law” and toward individual feeling. It is no surprise that such a concept flourishes in twenty-first century America. The final shot in America’s “culture wars” was fired on June 26, 2015. In the court case of Obergefell vs. Hodges, the highest court in the United States ruled there is no standard in marriage; the court stated that Americans should marry whoever is personally pleasing to them, regardless of gender. This stands as the most visible sign of a society that has left standards to the discretion of the individual. Where society goes, mainstream religion trots closely behind.
In an oxymoronic kind of way, what is developing is a legalistic postmodernism. There is now a belief that one must strictly adhere to the law that there is no law. To stand in opposition to ideas based on standards is a quick way to become labeled with one or more words indelibly linked with the suffix “phobic.” Fearful of being viewed as cultural pariahs, many have traded long held beliefs for comfort in a standard-free time.
What is a Christian to do?
First, for those who cling tightly to the principles laid down by God, it is of primary importance to strongly reaffirm those core beliefs, understanding that, through practice, a godly character will grow and flourish in believers. Second, it is time to realize that a wholesale positive change in society is unlikely. Rather than seeking to involve oneself in great social initiatives, time is better spent influencing the near world; friends, neighbors, and most especially family need the attention of those who know the truth and refuse to sell it. Third, members must work hard to bolster the local church. As society drifts further away from God, local churches will become havens where truth is appreciated and practiced. This requires every member to not only take personal responsibility for keeping the truth; it also requires that each member work to maintain truth as the standard of godly fellowship. Most of all, Christians must pray. Cultural decay can be troubling and has troubled Christians for over 2,000 years. God wants cares cast upon Him; He wants His people to remember that He cares for them even when it appears their world is collapsing.
Conclusion
Society and culture rarely serve as good models of behavior; they typically reflect an ignorance of God and His ways. May every child of God commit to the path that He has lain out and never doubt that path, whether falsely accused of “legalism” or belittled by postmodernists. May each child of God make the same confession as the apostle Paul when he stated, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). With this goal, God and His law will always maintain their proper place in the lives of the faithful and their home with Him assured by His grace, mercy, and love.