The Legalism of Culture

I’ve heard people talk about Christianity as just a big list of constricting rules, and while God’s moral standard is indeed a foundational pillar of scripture, it’s SO much more than that. It’s not a list of rules that we wear on our backs like a crushing weight, it’s actually something we find joy and delight in as we become more like Christ through the power of His Spirit within us. It helps us know and love God as we grow. On the other hand, while our culture preaches freedom from these rules, it’s actually bondage where there’s no grace to be found. Culture is FAR less gracious than Jesus.

Our modern culture actually preaches staunch legalism. “Say this, don’t say that, agree with this, affirm this, celebrate this…or else.” The anxiety that permeates our culture over the outrage that may trigger if you step outside what has been declared “good” is absolutely everywhere. The paranoia of everybody reading negitive motives into everything has everyone on their toes. People don’t even realize the intensity of it anymore. If you don’t conform to what society has decided righteousness is, you are evil - hence, cancel culture.

But Jesus is gracious. He will never cancel anyone who truly believes in Him. You can trip, fall, stumble off the road, and no matter what, there still remains His perfect grace and forgiveness purchased by His own blood. His death happened in view of every sin we’ve ever committed, and He still did it anyway. He is patient. He is kind. He endures our weakness and even gives us His strength. He literally forgave those who put Him on the cross while He was being crucified. He’s completely, utterly, and refreshingly different than anything we see in the world.

The world has Hollywood, lights, TV shows, famous people with influence and opinions - but one day, those lights will burn out. It’s all temporary. It’s all perfectly lame and haphazard compared to the perfection and eternal glory of Christ. Be very careful who you let rule your life.