How does Matthew 15:6 challenge traditional views on honoring parents? Matthew 15:6 “he need not honor his father or mother ‘with it.’ Thus you nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition.” Immediate Literary Setting The verse occurs in a dispute (Matthew 15:1-9) where Pharisees criticize Jesus’ disciples for eating with unwashed hands. Jesus answers by contrasting divine command (“Honor your father and mother,” Exodus 20:12; 21:17) with a man-made loophole that allowed people to dedicate property to God and thereby withhold support from their parents. Historical-Cultural Background: The ‘Corban’ Practice Rabbinic sources (m. Nedarim 1–9) describe the qorban vow: declaring possessions “given to God” rendered them unavailable for ordinary use yet allowed the owner continued enjoyment until death. Archeological evidence for the formula comes from a first-century ossuary inscription found in the Kidron Valley reading korbanas (qrb’n). What appeared pious in public frequently served as a legal dodge to sidestep filial responsibility. Old Testament Foundations of Honoring Parents Exodus 20:12; Deuteronomy 5:16 command honor with the attached promise of longevity. Leviticus 19:3 pairs parental reverence with Sabbath observance, showing equal weight. Provision for parents was expected materially (Proverbs 28:24) and verbally (Exodus 21:17; cf. Matthew 15:4). Jesus affirms, not abrogates, the Mosaic principle. How Matthew 15:6 Challenges ‘Traditional’ Views 1. It exposes religious tradition as capable of undermining Scripture rather than safeguarding it. 2. It redefines honor as tangible care, not mere lip service or ritual gifts. 3. It asserts that true devotion to God cannot bypass obligations to people made in His image—starting with one’s own parents. 4. It places Jesus’ authoritative interpretation above the consensus of revered teachers, shifting ultimate interpretive authority from rabbinic institutions to the incarnate Logos. Systematic Theological Implications Jesus upholds inerrant Scripture while rejecting additions that conflict with it (cf. Deuteronomy 4:2). Thus Sola Scriptura is modeled by Christ Himself. The episode also prefigures apostolic teaching: Paul repeats the command (Ephesians 6:2-3; 1 Timothy 5:4, 8) and labels neglect “worse than an unbeliever.” Ethical and Behavioral Considerations Current research on intergenerational obligation shows improved mental health among aging parents who receive consistent familial support. Scripture anticipated this social good. Modern parallels to “Corban” include prioritizing charitable giving, ministry ambitions, or career over caregiving duties; Matthew 15:6 rebukes such rationalizations. Practical Application for the Church Believers must ensure parents are cared for before funding discretionary ministries. Eldercare, financial planning, and honoring parental counsel fall under the fifth commandment’s scope. Churches should teach that generosity begins at home (Proverbs 3:27). Conclusion Matthew 15:6 challenges any tradition—ancient or modern—that excuses neglect of parents under the veneer of piety. By exposing the Pharisaic loophole, Jesus reasserts God’s unchanging priority: authentic honor rooted in concrete acts of love. |
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