But It's With Best Of Intentions

"See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to the tradition of men, according to the elementary principles of the world, rather than according to Christ." - Colossians 2:8

Legalism, in Christian theology, is a term referring to an over-emphasis on discipline of conduct, or legal ideas, usually implying an allegation of misguided rigor, pride, the neglect of mercy, and ignorance of the grace of God, or emphasizing the letter of law at the expense of the spirit. Did you get all that?

One reason fundamentalist Christians are so resented is, quite frankly, because some fundamentalists have added words to Scripture. Well-intentioned people feel there is a need to add to Scripture and not trust Scripture to be enough. Throughout the years, we have seen certain legalisms permeate many denominations. There have been zealous Baptists who declared all dancing is bad; even not going to Disney World back in the late 90s, (because Disney allowed gay pride days in Central Florida).

Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, Lutherans, Episcopalians, Catholics...every denomination grabs hold of certain legalisms with the best of intentions. Of course, there are no greater legalists today than the secular legalists who espouse political correctness. They have become the modern day Gestapo when it comes to enforcing select legalisms (PCs) of their choice.

Understand that man-made legalisms are an insult to God and to His Word. It's like saying the Bible is incomplete and we have the knowledge to correct the scriptures with added insight on what is right and wrong. In fact, we are getting into some very scary territory when we do that. God's Word plainly says, "Every word of God is pure; He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Do not add to His words, lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar." (Proverbs 30:5-6)

Whew! That's strong! The Word of God is enough. Let's trust in that.

Come Just As you Are!

Come Just As You Are

"All that the Father gives me will come to me, and whoever comes to me I will never drive away..Jesus Christ." - John 6:37 NIV

There is no way to verify this, but I believe that no song is more associated with people’s public profession of faith than the hymn, “Just As I Am.” Though written in 1835, the hymn’s popularity reached its apex in the second half of the twentieth century when Billy Graham used it for his altar calls. Many churches and evangelists also adopted it, making it a tradition at the end of services when people are invited to “walk down the aisle” and declare their lives for Jesus.

And no wonder. Does any hymn summarize the declaration of a spiritual journey more succinctly than “Just As I Am”? Focus on these words – these powerful, beautiful words – of a sinner deciding to place his soul in the hands of Jesus.

Just as I am, without one plea,
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidst me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot,
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, tho' tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, Thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve,
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come.

Have you come? Will you come today – just as you are?