I have found that legalism is a term commonly used by Christians to describe those who work diligently in following God's commandments. If that definition of legalism is correct, was Jesus a legalist?

Jesus Himself said, "If you love Me, you will keep My commandments." John 14:15 In the next chapter He says, "If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love. These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may be in you, and that your joy may be made full." John 15:10-11

"And by this we know that we have come to know Him, if we keep His commandments. The one who says, "I have come to know Him," and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him; but whoever keeps His word, in him the love of God has truly been perfected. By this we know that we are in Him: the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked." 1 John 2:3-6

Wow! So here we see that in keeping God's laws and commandments, the love of God is perfected! What a beautiful picture! How lovely to be able to display the love of God through your actions of obedience to the Scriptures.  

Think on these things:

**Should Christians be attempting to conform to the image of Jesus by seeking out AND obeying God's laws and commandments? In 1 John 2:3-6 (above) it says that we ought to walk in the manner that Jesus walked. JESUS obeyed the commandments of God!!! He constantly sought, pondered and obeyed God's laws and commandments! Can we constantly be in complete obedience to God, as Jesus was? No. But that should be our goal according to those verses! We should be trying to fit the ever-so-popular "definition" of legalism! We should be striving to keep ALL of God's commandments. After all, Holiness SHOULD BE our desire as fruit-producing Christians! "Be Holy, for I am Holy" 1 Peter 1:16

 

**If one uses the word legalist to describe someone who works at following God's commandments, is that person using that word in order to make themselves feel okay about their lawlessness? Ouch!

 

**What is the real difference between legalism and obedience? TRUE legalism is trying to improve your standing before God. It is the motive, not the deed itself. In other words, true legalism is a type of work-based salvation. Obedience is a heart, seeking to obey Jesus and become more like Him in order to bring joy to the Savior! "Obeying God's laws is an act of praise, not a bribe. Obeying God's commands is an act of gratitude, not a payment. " Dr. Robert G. Spinney

Here's another WONDERFUL post on this subject!