??? QUESTIONS and ANSWERS – Viewpoint

Question: What is a legalistic religious organization?

Answer: There are many visible signs that may not be obvious to someone who has been indoctrinated in controlled “religious” thinking and service. Acceptance and good standing of its members are based on works and on a system of beliefs and standard of proper conduct set forth by the leadership. To the average member this is the accepted norm and little or no thought is ever given as to whether it is right or wrong. Unquestioning submissiveness and obedience is expected of its members with no questions asked.

Some other signs are:

1. Outward performance is used, as a criteria, to judge whether one is a “faithful” Christian or not. What one does outwardly is more important than who one is before God in their devotion and obedience to Him.

2. Traditional fences are set up to establish boundaries of conduct, thus setting aside the work of the Holy Spirit in directing each individuals’ conscience. The organization becomes the person’s conscience and measuring rod.

Fences are necessary to protect children, but man-made fences are a hindrance to one’s spiritual growth in true Christian maturity. In Hebrews 5:14 it states that the “strong meat” is not doctrinal knowledge but rather “being able to discern good from evil,” a character likeness to Christ. This is true spiritual maturity.

3. A spiritual smugness and false security is apparent among its leaders and membership. “We, alone, have the Truth” is the mindset and other Christian groups are considered “nominal” (in name only). A ‘We” vs. “They” attitude of judgment presides and is encouraged by its leaders as a way of holding onto their flock. In such a group, one side-steps the Holy Spirit as teacher and guide to God’s truth.

4. “Spiritual pride” via intellectual knowledge is more important than character development and being conformed to the image of Christ. The Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 13 warns that even if we have “ALL knowledge” and do not have godly “love,” it is of no profit at all to us as followers of Jesus. “Looking unto Jesus” must be the focus of a true Christian walk. Knowledge and outward performance alone will never suffice.

. .E. Weeks