What does "Moses said" in Mark 7:10 reveal about God's commandments? Setting the Scene Mark 7:10: “For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘Whoever curses his father or mother must be put to death.’” Jesus cites two commands from the Law (Exodus 20:12; Exodus 21:17). He is exposing how the Pharisees’ “Corban” tradition nullified God’s word (Mark 7:11-13). The Phrase “Moses said” • In Scripture, “Moses said” equals “God commanded.” • Moses served as God’s mouthpiece (Exodus 3:10-12; Deuteronomy 34:10). • Jesus treats Moses’ words as fully authoritative, showing the commandments remain binding and unaltered by human custom. What This Reveals About God’s Commandments • Divine Origin: They come from God, even when delivered through a human servant. • Supreme Authority: No tradition, culture, or loophole may override them (Isaiah 40:8; Psalm 119:89). • Moral Seriousness: Violations carry weighty consequences—illustrated by the death penalty for cursing parents. • Protective Purpose: Honoring parents safeguards family, society, and generational blessing (Ephesians 6:1-3). • Timeless Relevance: Jesus references the command centuries after Sinai, affirming its ongoing validity (Matthew 5:17-19). • Heart Orientation: True obedience flows from the heart, not mere external ritual (Deuteronomy 6:5; Mark 7:6-8). Supporting Scriptures • Exodus 20:12: “Honor your father and your mother, so that your days may be long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.” • Exodus 21:17: “Whoever curses his father or mother must surely be put to death.” • Deuteronomy 5:16 parallels Exodus 20:12, underscoring continuity. • Matthew 15:4: Jesus repeats the same citation when challenging human tradition. • Colossians 3:20: “Children, obey your parents in everything, for this is pleasing to the Lord.” These passages reinforce that the parental-honor command is God’s enduring standard. Practical Takeaways • Treat Scripture—not custom or opinion—as the final word. • Honor parents with respect, care, and material support; this is worshipful obedience to God. • Guard against any modern “Corban”-like excuses that sidestep clear commands. • Teach the next generation that God’s commandments are good, loving, and for our flourishing. Summary When Jesus says “Moses said,” He confirms that God Himself spoke through Moses. His citation in Mark 7:10 reminds us that God’s commandments are divinely authored, supremely authoritative, morally weighty, protective, and eternally relevant—never to be nullified by human tradition. |
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