TWO words: "Legalism" and "antinomianism"
Legalism" (or "nomism") applied to the idea that "by doing good works or by obeying the law, a person earns and merits salvation." Although no word applies to it in the Bible, it is a pejorative word used to describe those who think that God's law is a "requirement" to salvation. The Pharisees approach to God's law is one example.
On the other hand, the opposite of legalism is called "licentiousness". The term for licentiousness is “antinomianism.” Antinomianism is made up of two words: “anti” (against) and “nomos” (law). What is licentiousness? Licentiousness is not about your freedom to do what the Bible allows (that is actually a good thing).
Licentiousness is where you allow what God forbids and think that you are no longer bound by it. You think that nothing is wrong with disobedience, so the major implication is: it is Ok to sin and break God's law. The word “license” in the term “licentiousness” refers to the “freedom” one thinks they have to walk in sin. The person who thinks that they can sin all they want because they are "saved by grace" doesn’t actually understand grace.
So contrary to typical understanding of both terms above, the solution is not to de-emphasize grace; but rather to emphasize how great the reality of salvation is, by living the truth of God's law and grace in one's life!
With the correct understanding of what grace is all about: God's law is not something to be feared or a burden. Nor the law is about achieving one's salvation. The law is never about perfecting one's life by "doing good", or even correcting one's sin. These wrong ideas must also be cleared.
Earning and retaining salvation through the merit of works, should not be confused with obedience to God's Word/Commandments. Obedience is the expression (fruit) of a life through the saving act of Christ (His grace), and the continuing works of Christ's (His righteousness) as we walk in holiness which is His, altogether.
"Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him,
That glory may dwell in our land.
Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed.
Truth shall spring out of the earth,
And righteousness shall look down from heaven.
Yes, the Lord will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase.
Righteousness will go before Him,
And shall make His footsteps our pathway." -Psalm 85:9-13 | RDH
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