Legalism

July 2, 2020

DAILY READING

Romans 7:1-6

FIELD NOTES

I think when we talk about self-control, we often neglect to talk about legalism.  Legalism is when we define our faith by doing what we think is right rather than what we think is wrong.  Legalism is when our faith is defined by what we do, rather than whose we are.  As Wesleyans, we believe we are being sanctified, that is, we are always being made and remade in the image of God.  This is not because of what we do, but because we belong to God and God loves us and wants us to be whole.  

Self-control that leads to repentance and grace is good.  Self-control that leads to legalism and exclusion is not.  May our self-control always lead us to grace.  Amen.  

PRAYER GUIDE

Lord, may we never put ourselves outside of God’s grace.  Because we know that is not a possiblility.  Help us to always believe that.  

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT CHALLENGE

For the duration of our sermon series, we are offering daily prompts for applying the wisdom from the scriptures to our everyday lives. Each week focuses on how we can encourage those around us and bear fruit! This week we are focusing on the fruit of self-control.

“But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

Take a moment to reflect on God’s grace. Has self-control led the way to repentance and to experience God’s grace more fully? Thank God for the gift of his grace today. Who is God calling you to pray for today?

To learn more about the Fruit of the Spirit challenge, click here.