How does Matthew 15:1 relate to Colossians 2:8 on human traditions? Setting the Scene in Matthew 15 • Matthew 15:1: “Then some Pharisees and scribes came to Jesus from Jerusalem and asked,” • Their arrival signals a formal inspection of Jesus’ ministry, rooted in concern for “the tradition of the elders” (v. 2). • These traditions were oral regulations added to God’s law, elevated to equal—or greater—authority than Scripture itself (cf. Mark 7:3-4). Human Tradition Challenged by Jesus • Jesus immediately exposes the heart of the issue: man-made customs replacing divine commands (Matthew 15:3-6). • Isaiah 29:13 (quoted in v. 8-9) underlines the problem: outward religion divorced from true submission to God’s Word. • Key contrast: – Tradition of the elders → external ritual, “commandments of men.” – Command of God → unchanging, life-giving truth. Paul’s Parallel Warning in Colossians • Colossians 2:8: “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, based on human tradition and the spiritual forces of the world rather than on Christ.” • “Captive” pictures believers being carried off like spoil in war—enslaved by persuasive yet hollow teachings. • “Human tradition” again stands opposed to the sufficiency of Christ and His Word. Points of Convergence • Same Source: Both passages identify “human tradition” as the root threat. • Same Danger: Replacement of God’s revealed truth with man-originated ideas. • Same Remedy: Return to the authority of Scripture and the supremacy of Christ. Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 4:2—God’s command not to add to or subtract from His Word. • 2 Timothy 3:16—All Scripture is God-breathed and sufficient. • Galatians 1:6-9—A curse pronounced on any gospel contrary to the one received. Living Out the Principle • Test every tradition—family, cultural, or church—by clear biblical teaching. • Hold fast to practices that amplify obedience to Christ; discard those that obscure or contradict His commands. • Build discernment through consistent study of Scripture, anchoring heart and mind in the Word rather than shifting human customs. Summary Truths • Matthew 15:1 introduces a clash between Jesus and religious leaders bound by man-made rules. • Colossians 2:8 echoes the same warning for the church age, urging vigilance against being captured by traditions lacking Christ. • God’s authoritative Word stands above every human tradition, yesterday and today. |
    |