Homosexuality Or Legalism--Which Is Worse?

Originally Posted by pelathais

I think you are looking at it like a 2 dimensional sort of spectrograph. A graph or spectrum where "legalism" is far to one end and whatever is "opposite" is at the other. In looking for that "opposite" you have chosen something that is linguistically an antonym but not the real "opposite" of "legalism" as it is used within the Christian tradition.

If "legalism" is the attempt by man to earn salvation through the works of either The Old Testament Law, or some other kind of law; then the opposite of legalism would be having salvation given as a gift. This is the standard theological and philosophical interpretation based upon the teachings of the New Testament.

Paul, in the NT was dealing with those who were attempting to earn salvation through the performance of all or part of the Mosaic Law. He denounced their attempts as futile.

In today's discussion on legalism, the "legalism" involved isn't the works of the OT Law, but works and traditions that have been built up over the last 100 years or so (really about 50 or 60 years) that people are expected to do in order to earn their salvation.

These traditions and "dress codes," when administered "legalistically" are the true antithesis of the Christian faith. We must first understand that salvation is a gift and cannot be earned. Then we must ask ourselves, now that I'm saved how shall I live out my life?

As long as NT salvation remains a free gift from God, the rest of the debate becomes largely cultural. It's still an important debate! But the salvation of my brothers and sisters who have followed the NT pattern for salvation is not in question because we may disagree on cultural issues.

Again, being against "legalism" doesn't mean you are against holiness or holiness standards. It means that you are against putting a man-made price tag on the gift that God has freely given to us.

Pelathais,

You seem to like setting your own rules for how this discussion must occur. I find that your spectrum and graph are the ones that fit your position the best while Prax' represents a more honest view of the situation. Your view is the one that fits your argument the best.

You are obviously intelligent and well educated; educated by what I view as apostate Christianity as well as traditional Apostolic tradition. You seem to have chosen to embrace the apostate's positions in an effort attack the traditions which birthed you. I hope that I am wrong.

I think in this post you have revealed the reason for the per se. You DO actually feel that anyone who holds to a particular traditional Pentecostal standard is and MUST be a legalist! You may say otherwise but your words oppose you.