July 11

You have been severed from Christ, you who are seeking to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. Galatians 5:4

Many Christians adopt a pattern of life that places them under law. Not just the 10 Commandments, but also all the peripheral laws that men have made. We try to gain self-worth before God by adapting laws regarding attendance, lent keeping, baptism, and clothing—to mention a few. I am indebted to the writings of Ray Stedman, who points out the key pattern of those who would place themselves under law. It is “Sincerity (that is faith) plus activity equals life as God intended it to be.” This could not be more incorrect. We know that the book of Romans teaches us how to be saved; how to find justification by faith in Jesus. But the book of Galatians places more emphasis on “How shall we live, and how shall we be delivered from this present, evil age?” There it is made clear about the destructive path of legalism.

The legalist has reversed the intended order. He has placed himself on a path that will lead to more sin, not less. The proper pattern is “Life plus faith equals activity.” This is the life of faith in Christ—it is the exact opposite of the path chosen by the legalist. After receiving the gift of a new life in Christ we are to place our faith in what He has done. Out of the obedience of faith will come the activity; that is, the works of Christ through us. To do otherwise is to fall from grace.

We cannot improve upon our justification by law. We cannot find life by thinking that committee work, choir singing, teaching, and calling upon widows are methods of improving our position before God. Instead, our position is already secured by faith in Christ. Out of faith in that life position will come the works of God—not to improve our status before Him but to proclaim that all praise goes to Him

Father, I ask today that I more clearly understand the way of grace and faith. Let me not seek legalistic ways, which are really fleshly, man-made ways, of leading my life. Let me rest completely in the works of Your Son, Jesus, and then I will find myself fulfilling the Life You have given me. Thank You in the name of Jesus. Amen.
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