How can we apply Matthew 15:10 to avoid legalism in our faith? Setting the Scene Matthew records a turning point where Jesus confronts the Pharisees’ elevation of tradition over God’s commands. Into that tension He declares: “Jesus called the crowd to Him and said, ‘Listen and understand.’” (Matthew 15:10). The Lord issues a clear, literal summons—hear Him first, not human systems. Legalism: Recognizing the Danger • Legalism reduces faith to external performance and man-made rules. • It misplaces confidence, trusting rituals rather than the Redeemer. • It fuels pride, comparison, and spiritual stagnation. • It ignores the inner work of grace that produces true obedience. What Jesus Emphasizes • Listening precedes doing. Discipleship begins with receptive hearts. • Understanding flows from Scripture, not mere tradition. • The core issue is internal: what proceeds from the heart shapes outward life (see Matthew 15:18-20). Scripture to Anchor Our Steps • 1 Samuel 16:7: “For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” • Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O man, what is good… to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” • Galatians 5:1: “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free… do not be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” • Colossians 2:20-22: human regulations “have an appearance of wisdom” yet “lack any value in restraining sensual indulgence.” • Romans 14:17: “The kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Living Out Matthew 15:10 1. Prioritize hearing Christ daily • Open Scripture expecting literal, authoritative truth. • Invite the Spirit to impress the Word deeper than any tradition. 2. Test every practice by the Word • Keep cherished customs, songs, or schedules only when they align with clear teaching. • Discard rules that merely mimic holiness yet lack biblical warrant. 3. Guard the heart over appearances • Confess motives that drift toward self-promotion. • Cultivate unseen devotion—prayer, generosity, integrity—known to God. 4. Rest in grace, not scorekeeping • Remember Galatians 2:16: “By works of the law no one will be justified.” • Serve from acceptance, not for acceptance. 5. Celebrate freedom responsibly • Reject bondage to man-made expectations. • Use liberty to love, edify, and pursue holiness (1 Peter 1:15). A Simple Daily Checklist • Read a passage, listening before acting. • Ask, “Does today’s plan spring from Scripture or human pressure?” (silent reflection without posing a written question). • Choose one grace-motivated act of obedience. • Thank God for freedom in Christ. • Encourage one believer away from rule-keeping and toward heart transformation. Conclusion: The Invitation of Christ Jesus still calls, “Listen and understand.” Taking His words at face value keeps faith vibrant, grace-filled, and free from the chains of legalism. |
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