What is nomism?

Answer

Nomism originates from the Greek term nomos, meaning “law.” It denotes a religious framework governed strictly by rules and regulations, suggesting that adherence to such rules can lead to acceptance by God. Nomism can be demonstrated through mere conformity or sincere, heartfelt obedience, both of which fall under the concept of nomism.

At times, legalism is used interchangeably with nomism. However, legalism can also describe a mindset among some Christians who, despite acknowledging salvation through God’s grace apart from works, believe they are superior to other Christians by adhering to a strict, often non-biblical, code of conduct. While these individuals may be considered legalists, they do not align with the principles of nomism.

In his letter to the Galatians, Paul addressed the issue of nomism. The nomists, also known as Judaizers, advocated that, alongside faith in Christ, adherence to the Old Testament Law was necessary for salvation. Their emphasis was not on following the law as a moral code but as a requirement for salvation, particularly highlighting circumcision for Gentile believers. By promoting circumcision, a key ritual in converting to Judaism, the nomists likely believed that the circumcised Gentiles would also adhere to all other laws (see Galatians 5:3).

Paul’s response to this form of nomism was direct and forceful:

“I am amazed that you are so quickly turning away from the one who called you to live in the grace of Christ and are embracing a different gospel—which is not truly a gospel at all. Some individuals are confusing you and distorting the gospel of Christ. But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, let them be under God’s curse! As we have said before, I now say again: If anyone is proclaiming a gospel that contradicts what you received, let them be accursed!” (Galatians 1:6-9).

Gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!” (Galatians 1:6-9).

“We who are Jews by birth and not sinful Gentiles know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ Jesus that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. . . . I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing!” (Galatians 2:15-16, 21).

“For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse, as it is written: ‘Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law.’ Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God. . . . Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us” (Galatians 3:10-11, 13).

Everywhere Paul encountered this teaching, he opposed it. “Certain people came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the believers: ‘Unless you are circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved.’ This brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp dispute and debate with them” (Acts 15:1-2).

While God does expect Christians to live in a certain way and even keep “rules” (e:g:, Ephesians 4:17—6:9), our ultimate acceptance before Him is based on the righteousness of Christ, not our ability to keep the law and live righteous lives.