Today's lesson continued to deal with Paul's teaching from the book of Romans and spoke specifically to the issue of legalism. We began the lesson today with a discussion of legalism as it exists in our world today. We talked about the recent story of a teenager in Florida who converted from the Muslim religion to Christianity. According to recent press reports, the young lady has been placed under temporary custody of the state due to the fear that her father will conduct or at at least allow an "honor killing", causing the youngster to be killed because of her repudiation from the Muslim religion. Would you consider such activity to reflect the principle of legalism or does it reflect grace? Obviously, the concept of "honor killing" as a response to one who disavows his/her Muslim beliefs is a strong example of the concept of legalism.
Another example we discussed was the high school student in Indiana who was competing for the state diving championship. During the competition, she removed a pony-tail holder from her hair and slipped it on her wrist. She was disqualified from the competition because one of the judges noticed the item around her wrist and interpreted it to be a violation of the rule prohibiting jewelery to be worn by participants--another extreme example of legalism. We talked about legalism in our society and considered the fact that it is impossible to comply with every law and every rule all the time. There are many special circumstances and considerations that cause people not to be in compliance with the letter of every law all the time.
Deanne Holmes shared a perfect example. She talked about the practice of carrying candy and or snacks into the theatre when the family is going to watch a movie. OK...who among us hasn't done this or something similar? I know someone who has even taken food into Kyle Field. Technically, such behavior is a violation of the rules. Realistically, who wants to pay $4 for a package of Junior Mints or $3 for a bag of popcorn? Where is the line? Where does such behavior become sin? Is there a gray area?
In today's scripture, Paul points out that we are all held accountable for complying with the law as long as we live. He used the analogy of a woman married to a man. As long as she is married to a man and as long as the man lives, she commits adultery if she is joined with another man. However, if her husband dies, she is no longer bound to him and does not commit adultery if she is joined with another man.
Therefore, even though we cannot possibly comply with the law which God gave to His people, we can avoid the penalty of death which is the price for non-compliance with God's law. We avoid the penalty of death by dying with Christ in Sin, being released from the law, just as the woman in the illustration was released from the requirements of the law when her husband died. In the same way that we are released from the legal union of marriage through the death of a spouse, we are released from the law through Christ's death.
We considered the following verses in today's discussion:
What is God's opinion of the law?
Exodus 18:16 The law is the statutes of God for determining right and wrong .
Malachi 4:4 The law is to be remembered.
Matthew 5:17-19 Christ came to fulfill the law not abolish it.
What is the ultimate demand of the law?
Galatians 3:10 Total obedience
James 2:10 Complete perfection of law keeping
What is the purpose of the law according to Paul in verses 7-8?
The law helps reveal sin.
Challenge for this week: Read and meditate on the 10 commandments (Exodus 20). Consider which sins are revealed in your life as you meditate on the 10 commandments.
What emotions do you feel when you consider that God's grace and forgiveness has freed you from the penalty of sin which is death?
ANNOUNCEMENTS AND PRAYER REQUESTS
Next week, Cindy and I will be out of town. We are working on getting a college student who participated in the mission trip to China to come share with the class next week.
"Sarah's Redemption"--a Bible Study for couples dealing with infertility
Taught by our own Becky Day. Please tell friends and neighbors about this opportunity. Study will be held on Sunday evenings beginning September 13 from 5:00 p.m.--6:45 p.m.
"Fireproof"--showing of this movie at Central Baptist Church, September 12 at 7:00 p.m. This movie is a great contributor to stronger marriages and could help to save a marriage in trouble.
PRAYER REQUESTS
Jaymee Brick is ill, taking care of small children, and moving--please keep her and the Brick family in prayer
Kathleen Gutierrez's Mom is facing a re-organization in her company. She has worked there for 30 years. Please pray that the Lord will continue to provide for her.
Hollis Jackson's Mom and Dad are on the road from Arkansas this week. Please pray for their safety and for peace and strength as they move into a new home in a new city.
Hollis Jackson's mentor in college has been diagnosed with blood cancer. Please keep this dear friend in your prayers this week.
Karri Jackson's brother is struggling with the transition into adulthood. Please keep him in your prayers as he needs God's intervention.
June Creel--1 year-old niece to Cindy and Jimmy Creel--in Texas Children's Hospital--being fed through TPN Tube--intestines still not absorbing nutrients.
Please continue to pray for our teachers, students, administrators, and parents--especially in light of the presidential address scheduled on Tuesday of this week.
May the Lord Bless and Guide Each of You This Week!
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