Many people looking at Christianity, who do not understand it, just see rules that one must live by. The subject of the difference between legalism and grace can fill pages and pages, however, the quickest way to the heart of the truth is through the greatest commandment. Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind” (Luke 10:27).
Having faith in, and loving God, compels you. That’s the difference. When you believe that God ‘is’, and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him, then the love of God grows in your heart. You realize His great love for you, and His great grace towards you, and His great mercy upon you. As you come to this realization it compels you to love Him. Loving Him compels you to listen to Him and obey Him.
Legalism is powerless, not only to save, but also to give power. After placing your faith, trust, and hope in Jesus’ death for your sins, He begins a work in your heart to live His life through you. It is the same power that raised Jesus from the dead that gives power to our mortal bodies and empowers us to live as He would.
Therefore, we are compelled to do right. We are compelled to see what the scripture says about praying, about spending money, about marrying, about government, about church, and all of the issues that pertain to life, because the Word of God speaks to all of them.
Through the ages many people have done things in the name of Jesus or God that have no start in God, and no claim on Him. Why? Because what He has revealed to us in His word is the standard. The infinite and personal God has spoken all the truth (not exhaustively, but truly) so that we can rationally understand what He requires of us. That is a gracious God. That is the beauty of grace.