People sometimes equate "legalism" with the belief that we earn salvation by works. In reality, while these are both pitfalls, they aren't the same pitfall. To understand what legalism is and how you might be falling into it without even realizing it, we recommend another study of ours called "Legalism: Treating the Law as Policy Rather Than Principle," linked below. But in this study, we'll be talking about recognizing the importance and even necessity of good works without falling into the trap of believing we earn salvation by works.
People often ask, "Is that a salvation issue?" in regard to various "good works." The premise here is that if being saved is a free gift, then good works are not required, and are not "salvation issues." In other words, whether you do it or not doesn't impact whether or not you are saved.
But there are problems with this way of talking about works and salvation.
As we've discussed in past studies, like, "Are Good Works Required at All?" linked below, the bible uses the word "saved" to mean delivered or rescued from something – and what that something is depends on the context it is used in. So when we see the word "saved" or "salvation," we need to ask, saved from what?
For deeper study, see our studies:
Legalism: Treating the Law as Policy Rather Than Principle, https://youtu.be/Vuwh2BEmqME
Sabbath School Q1 2023: Managing for the Master - Week 2, "God's Covenant With Us"
A Branch Davidian Seventh-Day Adventist perspective on the Sabbath School lesson.
Email us at bdsdalit@gmail.com for comments and literature requests.
