Freedom From Legalism - Part 8 - Why Would Anyone Want To Be A Legalist?

Let’s look at some basic reasons why people are drawn to legalism—

First, legalism provides people with a sense of security in that it enables them to always know precisely what to do in every conceivable moral dilemma. There is a certain sort of psychological safety in being ridged morally. Legalists are afraid of liberty.
Second, legalism nurtures pride. “Look at what I’m willing to sacrifice that others refuse to do. Others may indulge themselves but I have a discipline and a moral standard they lack. I possess a will-power that really loves God. Therefore God really loves me (with the implication that God doesn’t really love those who have chosen another path or at least He doesn’t love them as much as He loves me!) Legalism is not a step towards maturity it’s a step back into childhood.
Third, legalism provides an excuse to maintain control. You never need to fear the unknown because there is always a rule or law (which you made) to govern every situation. After all without rules things will get out of control (that’s what legalists think). The legalist is the one who eventually rebels because he is living in bondage depending on the flesh, living for self and seeking the praise of men not the glory of God.
Fourth, there is comfort in conformity. It’s always reassuring when other people live like we do, even if there is no explicit biblical warrant for it. Legalists hang out with legalists to feel good about themselves. They like being with their kind, for example certain fundamentalist Baptist's will only fellowship with others who use the King James Bible only. Some Pentecostal groups will only fellowship with others who believe in Jesus Only, they don't believe in the Trinity.
Fifth, some embrace legalism out of a genuine heart-felt concern for other believers (it’s misguided but real). They are actually motivated by love and compassion, worried that the spiritual welfare of others is at risk. They fear that others will assuredly “fall” if they walk down a certain path, even though that path is nowhere prescribed in scripture.