Category: Legalism

Sanctification: Let Go and Contemplate?

Sharing a few wise thoughts about sanctification; what it is, and what it is not. Borrowed from Biblical Counseling for Women and Linda Rice. Who really sanctifies us and how is it accomplished? This is not an in-depth study about sanctification, but wise thoughts in response to recent changes in emphasis in some christian circles.

Now What? Antinomianism?

The legalist views antinomianism as its opposite. Since Satan used the law to entrap one into legalism, the former legalist moves as far away from the law as possible. So, the legalist turns to antinomianism for the cure.

Now What? Neonomianism? (2)

Neonomianism emphasizes belief as the premier good act of faith, inadvertently separating faith and belief, and implicating free will. The Reformation’s idea of justification, with its double imputation is denied in Neonomianism. Richard Baxter was an early Neonomian teacher. There are parallels with Baxter’s teachings and Roman Catholicism that cannot be ignored. By allowing for inherent righteousness, instead of the alien righteousness from Christ, Neonomianism downplays the importance of Christ’s atonement for our sin; and his work that reconciles us to God.

Now What? Choose Neonomianism? (1)

Neonomianism, derived from the Greek ‘neo nomos’ or ‘new law’, teaches a single new law in the ‘covenant of grace’ is the requirement of faith. This replaces the law given at Sinai as the Old Testament’s ‘covenant of works’. It suggests God no longer judges on violation of moral precepts but on expression of faith. By this view, mankind can meet God’s standards with faith, not moral obedience. However, it does not account for inherent human sinfulness. Critics argue the original teachings did not set a ‘covenant of works’; and obedience to God is a privilege, not a condition of salvation. The Reformation maintained there was only one covenant.

Now what?

We look at two responses to realizing one’s legalism: fully embracing legalism, which can lead to joining the Roman Catholic Church, or turning to Pietism. Pietism encourages a more extraordinary, subjective faith and turns individuals away from institutionalized Christianity. It emphasizes subjective experiences and feelings over understanding and affirming doctrine.