Re: [TruthTalk] Legalism

[Terry Clifton]

Caroline Wong wrote: How terribly ironic, Terry. Although I came to Christ in university, I have always been a good girl. I was born into a culture that is very successful in teaching it's youngsters, especially it's young women, obedience and submission. I've always did well in school, respected and feared authority. I do not have any addiction issues (no drugs, cigarettes, alcohol, sex, etc. etc.) and am a virgin. I do not have any relationship issues as I'm very close to my family. I go to church regularly and I know my bible. I confess and forgive. I've been through inner healing sessions (ex. Bondage Breaker) by myself with the Lord or with prayer ministers. I am not prone to anger or depression or mood swings. I don't even get PMS. I can do the "obedience thingy" with one hand tied behind my back, while chewing gum and in my sleep.   So I'm your older brother. (as in the prodigal son story)   Yet, I know my Father's love and grace. And I know obedience is complex. As your "older brother", I welcome you home and I urge you to come into a fuller knowledge of God's grace. It is good to help us clean up after the party because you know you belong. It isn't that good if you're doing it because you feel you have to help "pay" for the party and for your past behaviour somehow.   Love,   Caroline, who like Paul was a Pharisee among the Pharisees. :-) I don't know about older brother.  Anyone older than me has been dead a long time.  I do think you'd make a fine wife and mother if you choose to go that route.  Qualifications look good anyway.   Just one or two things you have to get over.  The first is that my obedience is a payback for services rendered.  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  I serve in love (even when I don't feel like serving) because He loved me first.  He taught me to love.  I WANT to be obedient, even when I do not feel like being obedient.  Jesus felt the same way when faced with the cross.  I know that God's grace is there for me, but that is no reason to presume on it, and Christians who casually commit little sins (In their own estimation) are presuming on God's grace.  That is not good.  As your friend's pastor found out, a little sex with a girlfriend can lead to suicide.  Obedience beats repentance and forgiveness hands down.  If and when you marry, you will see that.  You are much better off with a husband that behaves than with one you have to forgive every time you turn around.  Along the same line, we are the bride of Christ.  We are supposed to be pure.  Will He forgive?  Most certainly, but is that what we want, a soiled bride for our Lord so that we can do our thing?  I don't think either of us want that. I don't think we are too far apart here.  In fact, as you grow, you will become more conservative and bad as that sounds now, it is a good thing. Terry