How can we discern between God's commands and human traditions in our lives? Setting the Scene in Matthew 15:2 “Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They do not wash their hands before they eat.” (Matthew 15:2) • Religious leaders confront Jesus, valuing ritual hand-washing that God never required. • Jesus immediately contrasts their tradition with God’s Word (see vv. 3-9). Key Principle: Scripture First • God’s Word carries absolute authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Adding or subtracting from it is forbidden (Deuteronomy 4:2; Revelation 22:18-19). • Traditions are acceptable only when they echo, not eclipse, divine commands. Marks of God’s Commands • Rooted in clear biblical text (Psalm 19:7-8). • Reveal God’s character—holiness, love, justice (Leviticus 19:2; John 13:34). • Lead to genuine obedience from the heart (Romans 6:17). • Consistent across Scripture, never contradicting earlier revelation (Isaiah 8:20). Red Flags of Human Tradition • Originates in human authority alone (Colossians 2:8). • Elevates external performance over heart devotion (Mark 7:6-7). • Nullifies or sidelines Scripture (Mark 7:9, 13). • Creates burdens God never intended (Matthew 23:4). Practical Steps for Discernment 1. Compare the practice with explicit Scripture. • If it contradicts, discard it (Acts 5:29). 2. Check the fruit. Does it grow love, holiness, and humility? (Galatians 5:22-23). 3. Trace its source. Was it instituted by Christ or His apostles, or by later leaders? 4. Seek the Spirit’s illumination through regular Bible intake (John 16:13). 5. Invite wise, biblically grounded counsel (Proverbs 11:14). 6. Hold everything loosely except the gospel itself (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Living It Out • Prioritize daily Scripture reading before adopting any religious rule. • When traditions clash with clear commands—choose obedience, not convenience. • Use traditions that spotlight Christ; release those that merely spotlight us. |
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