The term is a negative one and must refer to a wrong view of the Law of God or an abuse of its proper place in our lives.
1. Sinful Misuses of the Term "Legalism". a) As an undefined condemnation of someone else's views or practice which we do not like. Scripture is the test. Impossibility of being too Scriptural. b) As a way of justifying making flexible principles that Scripture makes inflexible. Our sinful desire to be arbiters of what sins matter.
2. What Legalism Is. The following misuses of God's law can fairly be described as legalism. a) Seeking justification by our works. 1 Tim.1:8-11. b) Adding to God's Law by human tradition. c) Attending only to the external. The heart cannot be right if we deliberately do outward wrong, but the outward practice can be right when the heart is not. d) Preoccupation with detail while neglecting bigger matters. Smaller matters of Biblical conduct not to be ignored, but the Christian must desire 'across-the-board' holiness. Matt.23:23.
3. Avoiding Legalism. a) Never ignore God's Word in the slightest on the pretext of avoiding legalism. b) Be aware of personal temperamental disposition. Some are easily over-engrossed in details. Seek overall godliness. The beauty of the Lord. c) Think much upon Christ and our absolute dependence upon Him. Example of strict Scottish Covenanters. Glorious thoughts of Christ lay behind their courageous consistency. John 15. Aim at Biblical consistency, but beware of pride in consistency which will prove a forerunner of blatant compromise. Gal.2:20 must be a constant reality. Make our boast in the Lord.
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