How can we ensure our practices align with Scripture, not just tradition, per Mark 7:3? Setting the Scene: Mark 7:3 “For the Pharisees and all the Jews do not eat unless they wash their hands ceremonially, holding to the tradition of the elders.” What Went Wrong for the Pharisees • Elevated human custom to equal footing with God’s command (Mark 7:8–9, 13) • Focused on external actions while neglecting the heart (Matthew 23:25–26) • Rejected clear revelation whenever it clashed with long-standing practice (Isaiah 29:13) Why Traditions Can Drift • Time: practices ossify and outlive their original purpose • Peer pressure: fear of criticism for breaking “how we’ve always done it” • Authority confusion: leaders can slowly substitute preference for precept • Convenience: rituals feel safer than Spirit-led obedience Four Tests to Keep Practices Biblical 1. Scriptural Foundation Test – Trace every practice back to a direct command, principle, or example in the Word. – “All Scripture is God-breathed…so that the man of God may be complete.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) 2. Context Test – Confirm that the passage originally taught the same activity you are performing. – Avoid lifting verses out of setting or era (Nehemiah 8:8 for proper exposition). 3. Christ-Centered Test – Ask whether the practice reflects the character and teaching of Jesus (John 14:15). – Anything contradicting His clear words must be discarded. 4. Fruit Test – Evaluate outcomes: “good fruit” of holiness, love, and truth (Matthew 7:17-18). – If the practice breeds pride or bondage, it fails—even if ancient. Daily Habits That Guard Against Empty Tradition • Read widely in Scripture, not just favorite passages (Acts 20:27). • Compare teaching with the Word like Bereans did (Acts 17:11). • Invite accountability from mature believers and shepherd-elders (Hebrews 13:17). • Test everything; hold fast what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Put truth into action immediately—hearers only deceive themselves (James 1:22). When Tradition and Scripture Agree • Some traditions flow directly from biblical command (Lord’s Supper, baptism). • Keep them, but keep them biblical—examine motives, maintain focus on Christ (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). Living It Out • Start each decision by opening the Bible, not polling popular opinion. • Welcome reform whenever Scripture exposes drift—better to change than to cling to error. • Let God’s unchanging Word shape every custom so that, unlike the Pharisees, we honor the Author rather than the elders. |
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