How does Matthew 15:6 challenge us to prioritize God's commandments over traditions? Scripture Focus “ ‘He need not honor his father or mother with it.’ Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition.” (Matthew 15:6) Setting the Scene • Pharisees and scribes confront Jesus because His disciples eat without the ceremonial hand-washing (Matthew 15:1-2). • Jesus responds by exposing a deeper issue: their practice of declaring possessions “Corban” (devoted to God) so they could withhold support from their parents, sidestepping the fifth commandment (Exodus 20:12). • The Lord shows that human rules had been elevated above God’s explicit command. What Went Wrong with Tradition • Tradition claimed holiness while fostering disobedience. • It appeared pious—“dedicated to God”—yet directly contradicted God’s call to honor parents. • The end result: “you nullify the word of God.” The Greek term means to invalidate, cancel out, make void. The Core Challenge Today 1. God’s commands are non-negotiable; traditions are adjustable. 2. Any practice—no matter how ancient or beloved—that erodes obedience must be surrendered. 3. Genuine devotion flows from listening to Scripture first, not from preserving customs. Parallel Witnesses in Scripture • Mark 7:8-9,13: “You have disregarded the command of God to keep the tradition of men… You nullify the word of God by the tradition you have handed down.” • Isaiah 29:13: “This people draw near with their mouths… but their hearts are far from Me, and their worship of Me is but rules taught by men.” • Colossians 2:8: “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception, according to human tradition…” • 1 Samuel 15:22: “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Acts 5:29: “We must obey God rather than men.” Signs a Tradition Has Taken God’s Place • It contradicts or weakens a clear biblical command. • It becomes a badge of spirituality, creating pride or division. • It burdens consciences where Scripture gives liberty. • It is defended more passionately than the Word itself. Practical Ways to Put Commandments First • Measure every practice—personal, family, church—against explicit Scripture. • Maintain a teachable spirit; be willing to reform long-held customs. • Elevate commandments that foster love for God and neighbor (Matthew 22:37-40). • When tradition clashes with obedience, choose obedience without delay. • Encourage traditions that illuminate truth, but never allow them to eclipse it. Walking It Out God’s commands bring life, freedom, and blessing. Traditions can enrich that obedience, yet they remain secondary. Matthew 15:6 calls each generation to guard the primacy of Scripture so that nothing—however time-honored—dims simple, wholehearted faithfulness to the living Word of God. |
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