I know how easily and naturally I can fall into legalism. I suppose it's natural for many, perhaps less so for those who tend to slip into more "obvious" sin that they cannot disguise as something noble and well-intended.

Steve Brown once made a comparison which comes to my mind every time the word "legalism" is mentioned. He says sanctification is a dance, not a duty. And a legalist is a dancer who is always looking at his or her own feet, to make sure (s)he's getting every step exactly right. And missing the whole point of dancing, which is to enjoy the One you're dancing with. Our eyes should be on His face, not on our own feet. ... Or worse yet, on someone else' feet!

I appreciate this discussion, gentlemen, and especially the thoughtful, respectful, and loving way in which it has been conducted even at the points where two disagree very sharply. You have both sought to clarify your own position, and to restate the other's position in an effort to understand it better. This thread has been an example of fruitful and editfying debate, and I thank you both, Pilgrim and AC, for the way you have conducted it.

-R