This reminds me of what a Pentecostal pastor’s wife “told” me about my wearing pants. I went out with her and a few other ladies from her church to do some witnessing. At the end, she let me know that I should not be wearing men’s clothes. I remember I told her, “Oh these? They’re not men’s pants, they’re women’s.”

You know what is refreshing? Hearing someone humbly reply, "I don't know" instead of trying to make something up to sound like an authoritative source. Thank you😌

The Bible tells us women to be modest. So this is definitely something we should pray about and take to the Father. Here’s a good question to ask ourselves when it comes to what we do, the question is “why am I wanting to wear this?” Or “why do I want to do that?” The problem is people wear things or don’t wear things like make up because of legalism but their hearts are not in the right place. I can dress in dresses all day but if in my heart I desire to be with another man other than my husband, my dress is useless. The outside of the cup is clean but the inside is dirty. We must allow the Lord to change us from the inside out, and it will show on the outside.

"That is not legalism, that's discernment!" Favorite line 😊

Legalism was one of the biggest criticism that Jesus had for the Phariseas

Towards the issue of women wearing pants. The Old Testament prohibition could be condensed to "you should not cross-dress".

Regarding the "pants" subject, I asked God to tell me what He expects of me because I want to please Him and not just because that is what others think is right. I don't wear pants today because I feel this reflects what God has revealed to me not to wear. In today's culture with all the mixed messages of what a woman is, I want others to be able to look at me and not question how I identify. I want to be seen for the beauty of Christ and not for what I am wearing.

I began wearing skirts when I was twelve (a year after the Lord saved me) and I am now sixteen and happily continuing to wear them. I do completely agree leglism is wrong and sinful but I think people tend to use legalism too often just so they can have more "Christian liberties." I will say, I don't see wearing pants as sinful but what I do see is a spiritual decline in Christian church through lack of reverence. Many are being led astray because of the "freedoms" we have in Christ but we are not looking to follow in the footsteps of our Savior because many are afraid to give up their sins. We are to be willing to grow in Christ, to be nothing like the world by our actions, words, looks and thoughts. Yes, abstain from leglism but don't hinder the Lord's guiding hand in your life for made up freedoms. We are in the world but not of the world. I appreciate you standing up for Christ in a dark world!

Thank you Melissa for addressing these topics. When I began to walk with Christ, I went down the rabbit hole of watching videos that commanded women to wear dresses/skirts, no jewelry, no makeup, etc. It was very hard and put an impossible yoke on me and other women. I have been coming out of legalism as the Lord heals me and this video was so encouraging.

I think some Christians confuse spiritual freedom with tradition. Then they call tradition scriptural when it's not scripture.

Wow the other day I was shamed by two evangelists on the street that I wore trousers. They said I don’t look Christian because I wear those jeans. I am telling you guys I was dressed very modestly (which is easy now in winter time). I was shocked… that was the first time that I was shamed for the way I dress. I told them that they should be careful with this legalism to not become like the Pharisees. But that we should bring this issue towards God in prayer. I’ve been thinking about that encounter a lot the last days and now I see this video! What a timing 🙌🏽 Edit: I said the same thing to the man what you said in the video. Definitely not a coincidence that I came across your video ☺️

I hated the legalism of wearing shorts as a kid. Girls were wearing skirts to their knees, but I still couldn’t wear shorts to my knee.

"I don't know" may be a disappointing answer, but it is honest. Legalism Mountain is such a good visual representation of what legalism heaps on people. We watch that Pilgrim's Progress animated movie about once a year. As a true allegory, its very literal in names and descriptions may not be super creative, but it paints a very clear picture, especially for children.

So thankful! This topic has been on my heart lately. It's wonderful to fully lean on our Father and not our actions. "Jesus removes the burden, legalism puts it back on" 👏

I struggle against legalism a lot, and you nailed it on the head. I’ve been afraid of being deceived again. Wow, so true. I’ve been praying for God to reveal grace to my heart. I understand it with my head, but head knowledge is not enough. Thank you for your ministry

How refreshing to hear “ I did some research and I’m still not sure the correct answer” !!!

I watched this video and you mentioned the film The Pilgrims Progress, I had to find it. I never heard of or seen it. As soon as I watched your clip, I looked for it on KZfaq and it was free to watch with ads. I watched it all. This movie blessed me so much, I'm 5 yrs into my salvation, and learning about God's word in true context, thanks to you and Mike winger and so many others that you have recommended on your channel. This movie and the songs have me wrecked, my face is swimming in tears of joy and emotions I can't express. This is the kind of movies our families need not Disney's. And I'm not being legalistic about Disney, just saying this just so good for our families vs magic and witchcraft. I can't wait to share this with my daughter and my granddaughter when she's a little older. It's an awesome movie for new believers!!! Even us adults can benefit from a cartoon movie like this. Thank You for everything you share on your social platforms that help people like me, walk with jesus Christ each day. ❤ I remember as little kid singing in big church with my parents and aunts and uncles "Blessed Asurance" in spanish, now I sing it in english and it is truly my story and song...❤

I just wish women/teen girls wouldn't wear stretch tights not covered by a top! Please please no yoga pants, unless they're covered by a dress or long top!

i love how honest you are about not understanding everything

That answer at the end is not a disappointing answer. Much of what you said in your responses are great. Legalism much like anything else is something that we have to understand that there is no exact answer. Rules or anything else that make us blind to God's grace and Christ's ongoing intercession for us is just bad. I greatly appreciate what you are doing with your channel here. I have used some of your videos as part of my studies at my church. As a pastor I find that many people have thought about a lot of things but fear they are the only one. They fear they are not worthy to study the Bible or to engage in theological study. I have used your channel along with others like Alisa Childers to show that they CAN and should study theological concepts and Biblical issues. You make that easier for many people. May God continue to use you in this ministry!

This is so opportune. I started pulling away from my church when I started studying the Bible and realized my church was insanely legalistic. I have now "unofficially" left, although only my immediate family knows. Some individuals recently introduced new rules like wearing skirts, no makeup, long hair. Of course, no tattoos, piercings, nail polish....the list goes on infinitum. I feel like I want to ask them specifically about the skirts but, I know why they are doing it, I just absolutely do not agree. Not sure how to even broach the conversation. It is sad to have to pull away from friends and family because of this.

What you said about our posture toward the enemy should be printed on large signs in all the places where Christians go. I intend to quote you on it. It's so good and so accurate. Thank you

I just came out of legalism about a month ago and didn't even know I was in it. I watched "The Demon Slayers" podcasts and got caught up in their echo chamber. They give off the vibe that if you celebrate Halloween, don't speak in tongues, and don't cast demons out of people you don't have the Holy Spirit in you or you're not Christian enough. Not every Christian is meant to do all these things. We all operate as one body with different gifts, not one being better than another, but all parts working together to perform God's will. I also watched waaay too many testimonies on the occult. No problem with that but it did create a fear around that "knowledge" which further fanned the flames of the legalism. If this occult knowledge is coming from the kingdom of darkness its all lies from the enemy and should be forgotten. I feel sad for others who are trapped in the fear of the things they have learned from the occult.

Oh man I LOVE the pilgrims progress animated movie. I started watching it randomly one day thinking I would turn it off right away because the animation was cheesy..I’ve watched it like ten times since. It’s amazing. Recommended it to everyone I can and they all feel the same way

“Judy mjudgerson” yesss I adore this already 😂 that is amazing 💜

Hi Melissa, the question about someone who messed with the occult and is now having weird experiences, James 4 is a great scripture to live by, and one of the things we can do to submit to God is to be baptised, if you're not already. I was like a leaf blowing in the wind, tormented by doubts and self-loathing. Being baptised as an adult, was a wonderfully freeing experience. I felt like I had made my choice - choosing God and His ways- publicly, and it made a difference in my spirit. Hope this is helpful.😊 Love your channel!

i had countless spiritual encounters, all of them were meant to confuse and mislead me. E.T encounters to channeling information to physical touches and visions... but truly the closer i got to Jesus and sound teaching and interpretation the less experiences i had. i greatly fear for those who seek those occurrences because without Gods intervention i would be fully lost and fully deceived but believing i was being led by God

A simple one sentence answer to legalisms. When I’ve used many times to start a conversation. When the pastors opinion becomes your obligation!

Great video as always! Thank you!

Thank you Melissa about the pants issue especially when it is cold. It will SO benefit Saints as you mature, read Our Holy Bible more, and pray for the wisdom to understand the verses - Correctly by. meditating on scripture. Amen. ❤❤❤.

Thanks for this, Melissa!

SOOO HELPFUL! Thank you Mrs. D! 😊

Thank you, Melissa. This was great.

I think the 2 biggest thing/ about wearing men’s/women’s clothing is if it were intended for a woman or man and the intent on wearing the clothing. Look at kilts, those are designed for men, but also women’s jeans. Again, for women. Now, look at the intent, is it to say “haha I want to dress up like the opposite sex look how radical, provocative and profane I am”. Or is it to actually pretend to be a woman or man as was likely a huge problem with male prostitution back in the day

Such an excellent explanation. Kudos Melissa!

Thank you MD, god bless.

Great questions and answers. I always look forward to hearing you.

Well said. This is such a huge issue among believers. And it is such a stumbling block to non believers. Two sides of the same corrupt coin based in idolatry. One side takes the instructions of God and turns it into an unbearable burden, the other side is about treating God's instructions like trash. Either side is worshipping self. Lording over others, or being your own lord.

Thank you soooo much for your answer about legalism and including the snippets of Pilgrims Progress. Thank you so much and God bless you :)

Just wanted to send you some love melissa, I'm always uplifted by your videos and I appreciate what you do and who you are

So glad I/we found your account! Such a relief to hear ! You’re a blessing and I Thank God for it. So GratefulHoward,

Thank you, Ms. Dougherty. Your past experiences have made you a wonderfully gracious and wise teacher.

Your satire is not mediocre. It’s awesome!! I love it!!

I love you and your content!❤

Thanks for this video, Melissa! Great responses you give to all the questions you addressed. May I just say about your skits: if anything they are NOT mediocre. Thank you and God bless you!

Love your satire, Melissa!

Great Q&A. Please do more Thank you Happy thanksgiving

Another great video. I've experienced the latter, it was like a reverse KJV-Onlyism. I came to faith reading the KJV and hold a special love for it, but the amount of sneering and outright hostility towards it as an archaic, old irrelevant and "crap" bible I was not prepared for. Being so open minded, they informed me the KJV was just a book written by straight sexist men, and told me to not bring it again. They highly recommended The Message...

Great and I really respect your honesty that you didn't know the answer. That's 2 of us. I learned so much. Praise God!

The devil's 1st trick is conviincing you he doesn't exist. Is second trick is convincing you he is everywhere.

I really appreciate you!

Amen that you came out of such darkness from sleep paralysis - Amen. Yes, sometimes these aren't demonic attacks but your past mind issues, etc. I have spoken of this to a Beautiful Saint in another nation that I email regularly. Thank you again Saint Melissa. ❤😊.

Melissa, thank you for teaching hermeneutics! Now I gotta go find your Judy McJudgerson material! You are so funny! ❤😂

Love your videos

Awesome job. Thank you Melissa. Many prayers are being said for you, your family, and the work you do for The Lord. Blessings of Jesus Christ be upon you always and forever.

God bless you and your family and friends and ministry

Love your insight

Well done 🤜🤛

I love watching your videos. I’m glad to know there are people like you out there studying and learning actual scripture and not afraid to share the solid truth in goodwill, genuine love and respect. My husband works in ministry and is connected to missionaries in various parts of the world who share testimonies of the people they reach with us. Maybe it sounds strange, but I’m always so grateful to see how God has planted men and women, like yourself sharing truth, all over the world to teach and share the gospel of Christ. I’m a stay at home mom right now, so I often don’t feel I’m doing much, but I sure am grateful and praying for the folks who are out there doing that work. All I can think is heaven will be beautiful and so full of people I can’t wait to meet.

Love ur transparency, honesty and humility sis! May our Loving Gracious Heavenly Father keep ur heart & mind in Christ Jesus our Lord and Savior. Glory to His Holy and Righteous name now & forever more AMEN 🙏

We watched the animated version of Pilgrims Progress recently, and also remember that part of it that you showed here.

I was a satanic witch for like 8 years. I believed that when you accepted Christ you were good now all that bad stuff would now go away. I went through this 2 week honeymoon phase with God them I started getting attacked so so so bad. Demons would pull my hair, yell, make noise all to keep me from sleeping. I was told it was spiritual warfare and it was normal. Eventually it persisted to the point where I was about to give up on Christianity and go back to being a witch. Eventually I learned about demons and deliverance. I was iffy because that's not what I had learned but I saw it all over the new testament so I went and had someone pray for me and long and behold I started growling. It was weird like I knew what was happening but couldn't stop growling then laughing. I have never suffered from mental illness nor was that normal for me. When I came to Christ I renounced witchcraft, threw all my witchcraft stuff away. Stopped living in sin and was reading the Bible and working on my relationship with God. So I didn't understand why this stuff was happening to me. So when I learned about demons I went because I figured I had nothing left to lose. And woah was I glad I went. Now I'm demon free and from time to time I go through spiritual warfare but it was not like when I had demons. You may not believe it but is my testimony.

Great topic.

Melissa, you do great satire!

First of all, I love your "pretty mediocre satire." So there! I also appreciate your humility in saying you don't know the answer to a question. I much prefer that, than providing a halfway answer that might end up being more confusing. As to the mark of Cain, I don't think I've ever seen a full explanation. I think there's things that God has just chosen to leave as a mystery. It's frustrating sometimes, as I am also one of those logical, facts-based, "BUT I NEED TO KNOW!", people. But it makes me look forward to eternity all the more! We will FINALLY see Him and spend the rest of forever getting answers and getting to know this amazing, incomprehensible God. I cannot wait!

Thank you!

I wish so badly that I knew you so you could disciple me! You’re so knowledgeable about everything I hope to gain wisdom about ❤

Thank you melissa This was a great video. As always. I wonder, Would you be able to clarify what some strict religions hold to when it comes to women's head coverings. It is a very strong teaching that many mennonite background churches teach as MUST. otherwise, they're seen as rebellious ❤

Sometimes is better not to know it all. And saying “I don’t know” makes you more wiser, In my humble opinion. God blessed.

Legalism to the extreme would be for women to wear a Burka. There is a big difference between men's pants and pants specifically made for women. What guy would wear pants designed for women? Great point about not having pants in the Old Testament days.

I love your satire😊

You make a great point about legalism. Legalism is NOT keeping God's commandments. Keeping God's commandments is righteousness and an expression of Love. Legalism is keeping MAN'S commandments as if they are from God.

Loved this ! ♥(The Legalism part is at the 11:27 -- 19:13 minutes spot.) ♥

As a Brit, this thumbnail made me chuckle

Thanks Melissa

When I was watching TV shows about hauntings and ghosts last year, I started to become more depressed and anxious. I prayed for God to forgive me and deliver me from harassment, (I don't believe that demons can possess Christians.) The occult is very enticing and dangerous even for born again Christians.

Run kid run!!!

When I was in Bible college I remember the school president preaching in chapel telling us female students that there was no reason for us to be wanting to wear pants other than our rebelliousness because "I can tell you that there's nothing that you can do in pants that you can't do in a skirt." This was coming from a man that never in his life had actually worn a skirt. I didn't say anything because I didn't want to stir up a hornets nest, plus the fact that I knew a nobody 19-year-old female student wasn't going to be successful with voicing dissenting opinions, and anybody that tried would just earn herself the label of a troublemaker. At the same time, I was there thinking about the time as a kid when my friend and I were on a swing set and someone had to tell us to get off. We thought we'd be ok since we'd tucked our skirts tightly around our legs, but it turns out that didn't work well enough. Then there was the outdoor staircase that I couldn't go up when I was wearing a skirt because the steps were iron mesh and there was a walkway under them. In both of those cases, pants would have been the option for someone going for modesty.

When you were talking about the armor of God, it made me think of "The Christian in Complete Armor" by William Gurnall. Highly recommended!

beautiful background💜

That cartoon looks fantastic.

Please yes, lets go back to robes. That sounds so comfy.

I know so many church that enforce women not to wear pants and skinny jeans, especially were I grew up! I wish we could get theology equipment for all believers and so when pastor enforce these things we would know what to do

God is Good!!! My Husband and I just Acquired a new House here in Notting Hill, Despite all the ups and down in House Crisis in U.K... As you Congratulate me your own testimony awaits you. Praise God!♥️

I agree with everything you are saying. I can’t help it though I only put a Bible on top of a Bible lol. I write in my Bible though.

Women started wearing pants , little bit at a time, around 130 years ago when feminism got started. I don't care if women wear pants, I stopped because I started seeing things about feminism and it's nastiness that bothered me, over sexualizing everything and the fact that now its 'in' to say there are no lines of separation, men can be women and women can be men. Things start slow, things rarely happen overnight.

I found a new love for Paul's writing in Westfall's "Paul and Gender". His words in the past struck me like a slap across time, but Westfall is able to bring a wholeness to Pauline theology that is very compelling. Paul's desire was for growth of spiritual maturity for men and women.

Every time I listen to you I leave with such a calm heart, you’re a bright spot in my day. Bless You

Melissa you're my fave!

I think its really personal conviction and what the holy spirit tells you is right. Although I think there are clothing pieces that are obvious it is not for Christian women, or women in general should wear; yoga pants, really revealing pants or short skirts or tops etc. Im not saying you can't or shouldn't wear parts because I do, but there is an obvious no no on what you should not wear.

The 15 year old boy… I wonder if he was struggling with scientific questions. That’s where I was when I was young. With so much old earth and evolution taught. One person he can message is Jay Wile. He’s the homeschool textbook writer and he answers great questions about science. He covers so much on his blog.

Acts 15:19-21 [19]Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: [20]But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. [21]For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day.

Lol. Keyboard warriors. Great term. Merch t shirt idea. I would totally buy it. Hehe... OHMYGOSH love it: "Virtual Vulture." HAHAHAHA. PLEASE PLEEEEASE do a T shirt or hoodie of the ridiculousness of this in cartoon format with those words: Virtual Vulture. HAHAHAHAHA!

I never had a problem with the ladies wearing pants. I am however a dude and will not ever be wearing a skirt nor dress. Robes are ok but yeah you won’t see me rocking a kilt either. Have a fun one!!!!

I miss seeing women in dresses. Now it's mostly gym pants. It may not be prescribed in the Bible... but it sure it make the lines between men and women more distinct. Seems it brought out the femininity in women. I don't agree with Mormonism... but I could spot a mormon women from a mile away. They have some of the most beautiful and feminine women both in dress and mind (although that doesn't make their teachings right). As with everything in life... we can choose to stay single, a women can go to work, a man can stay home and watch the kids. We can have outliers that prove successful. But we can't have this be the norm. There's one thing that we lack that has done much damage to society... sacrifice. I feel this quote embodies that attitude “A society grows great when old men plant trees in whose shade they shall never sit.”. We mostly live for ourselves now. We do what's best for us, what's most comfortable, and what's most convenient. Sure, we might sacrifice sleep for our newborns, care for a sick spouse, and give our time to the homeless. It's not easy... but often the things we do is either what we're wired to do, or already have the desire to do those things. For men and women to be their best for the greater good... would be a beautiful thing.

Roflmbo, Growing up in a protestant church i still struggle with not putting anything on my bible and writing in it.

Loved your answer to the first question. Sound Biblical exposition, & very up to date. I love that about the Bible!

I think my struggle with your answer at around the 10:30 marker. Is that we don't encourage people to buy into things until they understand. And you saying have faith but it isn't blind I don't agree with that reasoning. And than you following with why don't you believe I think is a valid question. Just suggesting that maybe you don't want to believe can also be applied to any other religion so I fail to see how that could help.

Bring back Judy!!! 😂😂

I wondered why God put such an emphasis on this in the Bible. Because God is God and I am NOT. God knew this was going to be an issue towards the last days.