What is nomianism?

Nomianism is a theological perspective that emphasizes the importance of keeping God's laws and commandments, especially in regards to salvation and ethical living. The term "nomianism" is derived from the Greek word nomos, which means law.

Nomianism affirms the necessity of obedience to God's laws as a necessary condition for salvation, but through legalism rather than grace. This means that salvation is viewed as something earned through obeying the law, rather than as a free gift bestowed by God's grace.

Nomianism is often contrasted with antinomianism, which is the idea that believers are not bound by the law and can live in complete freedom from its commands. Nomianism, on the other hand, affirms the importance of the law while recognizing that salvation is a gift of grace, not something that can be earned through legalistic obedience.

Some Christian traditions, such as legalistic Pentecostalism, have been accused of promoting nomianism, while others have argued that any emphasis on obedience to God's commands is automatically dismissed as legalism.