Love or Legalism Including Prayer of Repentance for Self-Righteousness and Not Walking In Love Legalism or Christ? "Question: What does the Bible say about legalism?... Answer: The word "legalism" does not occur in the Bible. It is a term Christians use to describe a doctrinal position emphasizing a system of rules and regulations for achieving both salvation and spiritual growth. Legalists believe in and demand a strict literal adherence to rules and regulations. Doctrinally