How can we guard against teaching "as doctrine the precepts of men"? The Challenge Jesus Identifies “‘They worship Me in vain; they teach as doctrine the precepts of men.’” (Matthew 15:9) Why Human Rules Slip Into Doctrine • Tradition feels safe; change feels risky • Personal preferences masquerade as holiness • Leaders crave uniformity more than unity • Ignorance of Scripture leaves gaps culture quickly fills (Hosea 4:6) Guardrails for Our Hearts • Submit every teaching to the plumb line of Scripture (Acts 17:11) • Remember that God’s Word is complete and sufficient (2 Timothy 3:16–17) • Cultivate humility—be willing to unlearn cherished but unscriptural ideas (James 1:21) • Depend on the Holy Spirit for discernment (John 16:13) Practical Steps for Individuals • Read the Bible aloud daily; hearing reinforces clarity • Keep a “Berean journal” noting where your beliefs are rooted • Memorize key passages about authority of Scripture (Psalm 119:9–11) • Compare sermon notes with the text the same day • Ask, “Where is that written?” whenever you encounter a new practice Practical Steps for Congregations • Encourage open Bibles during teaching times • Rotate teachers so no single personality dominates tradition (Ephesians 4:11–13) • Institute regular series that walk verse-by-verse through entire books • Provide forums where members can lovingly question practices • Review bylaws and policies against Scripture every few years Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Colossians 2:8 — “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception…” • Deuteronomy 4:2 — “You shall not add to the word I command you, nor take from it…” • 1 Thessalonians 5:21 — “Test all things. Hold fast to what is good.” • Revelation 22:18–19 — A sober warning against adding to God’s revelation Closing Thoughts Guarding against elevating human ideas to divine status is an ongoing, shared responsibility. As we cling to the pure Word, we protect true worship and keep Christ, not culture, at the center of our faith. |
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