Legalism is not……
…Faithfulness. If it is, then God is a legalist: “It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)
…Self-control. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law.” (Gal. 5:22-23)
…Diligence. “And we desire that every one of you do show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end.” (Heb. 6:11)
…Good works. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.” (Eph. 2:10)
…Regular giving. “For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.” (Phil. 4:16)
…Holiness. “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” (2 Cor. 7:1)
Legalism IS…keeping the Law of Moses in order to be righteous. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. (James 2:10)
A sincere relationship with the Father will bear the fruit of faithfulness, self-control, diligence, good works, generosity and holiness. These are not the traits of a legalist. A true legalist is one who will only do what they are told.
Barry Bennett