What steps can we take to discern between God's commands and human traditions? Setting the Scene: Mark 7:1 in Context “Then the Pharisees and some of the scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around Jesus,” (Mark 7:1). They arrive already convinced that their oral traditions are on par with Scripture. Jesus’ response (vv. 6-13) draws a sharp line between God’s commandments and man-made rules. That same line guides us today. Recognizing the Warning Signs • Traditions elevated to the same level as Scripture (Mark 7:7-8). • Rules that nullify clear commands of God (Mark 7:13). • Requirements that burden consciences instead of freeing them (Acts 15:10). Step 1: Start with What Is Written • “All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • If an instruction cannot be plainly grounded in chapter and verse—taken in context—it lacks divine authority. • Read the text first; consult commentaries only afterward. Step 2: Examine the Fruit • God’s commands lead to love and life (1 John 5:3). • Human traditions often produce pride or condemnation (Matthew 23:4-5). • Ask: Does this teaching cultivate Christ-like character or merely outward conformity? Step 3: Check the Motive • God’s law flows from His heart (Isaiah 29:13 contrasts lips vs. heart). • Human traditions frequently serve to maintain control or reputation (Galatians 6:12-13). Step 4: Compare the Burden • Jesus’ yoke is easy, His burden light (Matthew 11:28-30). • Traditions that pile on anxiety and fear reveal their human origin. Step 5: Follow the Example of Christ • Jesus never broke God’s law, yet He repeatedly disregarded man-made ritual washings (Mark 7; Luke 11:38-41). • Align your practice with what Jesus honored, not what He rebuked. Step 6: Listen to the Spirit-Led Community • The Bereans “examined the Scriptures daily to verify” (Acts 17:11). • Weigh teachings in fellowship with others who submit to the same Word and Holy Spirit (John 16:13). Step 7: Keep a Teachable Heart • “Receive with meekness the implanted word” (James 1:21-22). • God often uses challenges to our assumptions to purify our obedience. Putting It All Together 1. Open the Bible first; locate clear, contextual passages. 2. Test every tradition for scriptural footing, spiritual fruit, godly motive, and gospel freedom. 3. Watch Jesus—imitate what He validates, reject what He condemns. 4. Confer with Word-centered believers and remain humble. These deliberate steps keep us anchored to God’s unchanging commands while wisely recognizing, and if necessary discarding, merely human traditions. |
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