How can we discern when religious traditions hinder our relationship with Christ? The Scene: Fasting Contested (Mark 2:18) “Now John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. Some people came and asked Him, ‘Why do John’s disciples and those of the Pharisees fast, but Your disciples do not?’” What the Tradition Looked Like • Regular fasts twice a week had grown beyond Mosaic Law (cf. Luke 18:12). • For Pharisees, fasting became a public badge of devotion. • John’s disciples fasted in repentance, awaiting Messiah. • The custom itself was not condemned; the spirit behind it was. Jesus’ Clarifying Answer (Mark 2:19-22) • Presence of the Bridegroom: “Can the guests of the bridegroom fast while He is with them?” (v. 19). • Promise of Future Fasting: “The days will come when the bridegroom will be taken away… then they will fast” (v. 20). • Parable of the Patch & Wineskins: New covenant life bursts old, rigid forms (vv. 21-22). Principles for Discernment: When Tradition Turns Toxic • Does it eclipse Christ’s presence? If a practice distracts from enjoying Him, it must be reevaluated. • Is it demanded where Scripture gives liberty? (Romans 14:5-6). • Does it elevate human approval over God’s approval? (John 12:43). • Is the motive love or mere display? (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). • Does it produce joy and holiness, or pride and judgment? (Galatians 5:22-23 vs. 5:15). • Can it coexist with the “new wine” of the gospel, or does it rupture under grace? Scripture Cross-References • Mark 7:8-9 — “You have disregarded the command of God to keep the tradition of men.” • Colossians 2:8 — “See to it that no one takes you captive through philosophy and empty deception… according to human tradition.” • Colossians 2:16-17 — “Let no one judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a festival, a New Moon, or a Sabbath.” • 1 Samuel 15:22 — “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Galatians 5:1 — “Stand firm… do not be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Signs a Tradition May Be Hindering You • You feel guilt-ridden rather than grace-driven when you miss it. • It prompts comparison: “I do this; why don’t others?” • Scripture must be stretched to justify it. • The practice is preserved even when its purpose is forgotten. • It blocks fellowship with believers who don’t share it. Practical Steps to Guard Your Heart • Test every custom against clear biblical commands. • Invite the Holy Spirit to search your motives (Psalm 139:23-24). • Hold forms loosely, hold Christ tightly. • Celebrate traditions that magnify the gospel; release those that don’t. • Encourage mutual edification, not uniform performance (Romans 14:19). Holding Traditions Rightly • Treasure historic practices that spotlight Christ. • Remember: tradition is a servant, never a master. • Let each custom point to the Bridegroom who is present now by His Spirit and will return in glory. |
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