Holiness vs. Legalism: Drawing the Line? Part 1

by Melissa J | More from this Blogger

17 Apr 2007 12:19 PM

This is an area I have one of the toughest times with in my Christian walk! I consider myself fairly moderate on the Christian spectrum. I am conservative in appearance and actions; however there are Christians out there who are much more conservative in apparel and routines than I am. I want to be a better Christian but where do we draw the line between striving for holiness and becoming legalistic by making servitude toward Christ more about rules and regulations than about relationship?

Here are some things I've been thinking about:

• Dress: I am not a covered woman as I believe 1 Corinthians chapter 11 to be talking about a spiritual covering rather than one of a garment. I wear pants that are designed for ladies. I believe that women should dress like women and men like men (Deuteronomy 22:5) as determined by their culture so there is distinction between the two. I also believe our dress should be modest in fashion so we don't draw inappropriate attention to ourselves.

  I have respect for women that I see who cover their heads and wear long dresses out of respect for the Lord. I believe many women who dress in such a way don't do so to appear self-righteous, but due to their beliefs and convictions.

• Music: Where do we draw the line between music glorifying God and being too "worldly"? My personal feelings on this matter are derived from Psalm 150:3-6.

  "Praise Him with the sound of the trumpet; praise Him with the lute and harp! Praise Him with the timbrel and dance; Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes! Praise Him with the loud cymbals; Praise Him with clashing cymbals! Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!"

  I don't believe music should be limited to the instruments were available in the days of David. I can't say that hymns should be the only music in which to praise and worship Christ with either. While I believe worship and praise in excitement of Jesus is acceptable, I also believe music done in the name of Jesus ought to bring glory to Christ over the musician. In addition, I believe musicians performing in the name of Christ are also held to a higher standard as a result of their proclaimed faith. Frankly, I'm glad to hear some popular style music on the radio talking about Jesus and wholesome things.

This is part 1 of a 3 part series. Please visit part 2 where I'll share some thoughts on celebrations and public associations.

Scripture reference is quoted from the NKJV.

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Valorie Delp (49340) 17 Apr 2007 05:17 PM

Thanks for sharing MJ! Excellent blog!

Julie Gentry (5915) 06 Jul 2007 11:07 AM

"I believe musicians performing in the name of Christ are also held to a higher standard as a result of their proclaimed faith." I wholly agree with you here. Musicians who purport to be Christian, but whose lyrics are unintelligible and whose music is indistinguishable as Christian music are NOT living up to that standard.