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We Have A Tendency To Always Look For The Loophole (ism #2)

March 30, 2025

We Have A Tendency To Always Look For The Loophole (ism #2) | March 20, 2025 | Dr. Larry Baucom, Dr. Troy Doucet

In this session, Dr. Troy Doucet and Dr. Larry Baucom explore the concept of Loophole-ism, a mindset where individuals selectively follow Jesus’ teachings based on personal preference. Unlike Legalism, which rigidly adheres to rules, Loophole-ism seeks ways to justify avoiding God’s expectations while maintaining a façade of faithfulness.

  1. The Tendency to Find Loopholes:

    • People naturally seek ways around commitment to God’s will.

    • Jesus addressed this behavior in Luke 6:46-49, questioning why people call Him “Lord” but do not follow His teachings.

    • Case Studies in Loophole-ism:

      1. Abraham & Sarah (Genesis 16): Abraham finds a “loophole” in God’s promise by having a child with Hagar, leading to conflict.

      2. King David (2 Samuel 11): David attempts to cover up his sin with Bathsheba through manipulation and deceit, demonstrating how loophole-seeking often leads to greater moral failure.

  2. Loophole-ism Involves Cover-ups & Partial Truths:

    • People justify dishonest actions by twisting technicalities, as seen in a courtroom anecdote where, as a teenager, Pastor Larry avoided a drag racing charge by exploiting a minor detail.

  3. Who is the Boss?

    • At its core, Loophole-ism reflects a struggle for control, resisting submission to God.

    • True faith is about trust, not just rule-following, and requires embracing God’s will due to trust in God’s perfect love.

Illustrations & Application:

  • Malcolm Gladwell’s concept of “avoision” (blending avoidance and evasion) explains how people rationalize skirting obligations.

  • A parable of two house builders (Luke 6) illustrates that cutting spiritual corners leads to collapse when trials come.

  • A construction superintendent’s story highlights how the quality of what we build spiritually determines the life we ultimately live.

Conclusion:

The Pastors challenge listeners to identify areas in their lives where they seek loopholes, surrender those to God, and build their lives on a solid foundation of trust and loving obedience. Faith isn’t about convenience—it’s about intentional action.