In what ways does Matthew 15:6 connect with the Ten Commandments? Setting the Scene • Jesus confronts the Pharisees about a loophole they promoted: declaring possessions “Corban” (devoted to God) allowed people to withhold support from parents. • Matthew 15:6: “he need not honor his father or mother.’ Thus you have nullified the word of God for the sake of your tradition.” The Direct Link to the Fifth Commandment • Exodus 20:12: “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the LORD your God is giving you.” • Deuteronomy 5:16 repeats the same command. • Jesus quotes this command in Matthew 15:4, then exposes how the Pharisaic tradition contradicts it in verse 6. • By refusing to care for parents, they break the Fifth Commandment while pretending to keep another religious obligation. Broader Ten-Commandment Connections 1. First Commandment – “You shall have no other gods before Me” (Exodus 20:3). • Elevating human tradition above God’s Word places those traditions in God’s seat. 2. Second Commandment – No idols (Exodus 20:4-6). • Their tradition becomes an idol, receiving reverence that belongs to God’s clear instruction. 3. Third Commandment – “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain” (Exodus 20:7). • Claiming their vow is “for God” while it violates His command misuses His name. 4. Ninth Commandment – “You shall not give false testimony” (Exodus 20:16). • Pretending righteousness while actually disobeying bears false witness about their devotion. 5. Tenth Commandment – “You shall not covet” (Exodus 20:17). • Keeping resources for self under the guise of piety reveals a covetous heart. Principles Jesus Highlights • God’s Word outranks every human tradition. • True obedience is practical and relational, not merely ceremonial. • Commandments work together; breaking one often violates several others. • Scripture exposes any practice—ancient or modern—that excuses disobedience. Living Out the Connection Today • Examine traditions, habits, or cultural norms—do any sidestep clear biblical commands? • Honor parents not only with words but tangible care, especially in their later years (1 Timothy 5:4, 8). • Measure every religious practice by the straightforward teaching of Scripture; if conflict arises, Scripture wins. |
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