When people try to live according to God’s law, they are frequently accused of being legalists, prompting us to ask a startling question: Was Jesus a Legalist? To truly answer this, we must look past cultural definitions and ask from a scriptural standpoint, What is Legalism?
In this episode of The Conquering Truth, we dismantle the widespread confusion surrounding what is properly called legalism and examine how the term is routinely weaponized against those who seek to live holy lives. By looking at Christ and the Law, we demonstrate that while the law is NEVER the means of obtaining righteousness, Jesus explicitly demands our total duty to keep and teach it.
Unpacking Matthew 5:17-20, we address the severe judgment reserved for those who subtract from God’s commandments—a serious issue confronting many modern “Reformed” churches today regarding doctrines relating to Sabbath-keeping, head coverings, and the second commandment.
We also break down Phariseeism vs. Legalism, showing how true Phariseeism actually elevates human traditions over God’s statutes rather than faithfully obeying His word. We also discuss how people want scripture to tell us exactly what to do in each situation, but scripture almost always conveys the law through case law and case law needs to be understood and applied to specific situations. This doesn’t mean that truth is relative but rather that, as 1 Timothy 1:5-11 teaches, the law can be applied to every area of life and every aspect of sound doctrine.
As a ministry of Reformation Baptist Church, we desire to promote a greater understanding of God’s Word and His law. Join us as we prove once again that theology drives the world and that true love for Christ means keeping His commandments.
Playlist on applying God’s law
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jn4FNbOHlBQ&list=PLYj_G2CFyWPl8j2y75I84K2xgCL-xKyN3
Timecodes
00:00:00 Purpose of the Law
00:07:17 Fulfilling the Law
00:19:03 The Sabbath Example
00:31:15 Adding to the Law
00:46:55 Tradition
00:54:48 The Charge of Legalism
01:09:35 Conclusion
Production of Reformation Baptist Church of Youngsville, NC
Permanent Hosts – Dan Horn, Charles Churchill and Joshua Horn
Technical Director – Timothy Kaiser
Theme Music – Gabriel Hudelson