Today as I read I was touched by a whiff of legalism. Legalism takes different forms. All of them are dangerous. We often hear about the person who thinks his own efforts at following the law will bring redemption. This verse brings out another type of legalism, using the rules to excuse sin.
This type of legalism follows the false idea that if we simply avoid making certain mistakes then everything else is allowed. In this case she did not forget to complete certain rituals. She seemed to think that as long as she made certain “offerings” (2077/8002) that she had fulfilled what God expected. Now she was free to rush off to her adultery.
So? God demands all of us. Yes, there are rituals. Yes, there are standards. But remember that the purpose of the law was to make us aware of how far short we come. Do all that stuff but realize that it does not excuse debauchery in other areas of life.
(Lev 20:7 KJV) Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.
2 comments:
That line always reminded me of the selling of indulgences by the Catholic Church.
Although I obviously don't agree with the Catholic church on how sins are forgiven, originally indulgences were given free as part of what a priest did. Like so many things we protestants have turned into money makers it was eventually perverted by the hierarchy.
At least that is what my memory tells me.
Grace and peace.
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