What traditions might we prioritize over God's commandments, as in Matthew 15:5? Setting the Scene • Matthew 15:5 reveals a specific practice: “‘But you say, “If anyone says to his father or mother, ‘Whatever help you would have received from me is a gift devoted to God,’ ”’. • The tradition, called Corban, sounded spiritual—money pledged to the temple—yet it excused people from honoring their parents, breaking Exodus 20:12. The Principle Exposed • God’s command: honor and care for parents. • Human tradition: re-label resources as “dedicated to God,” withholding needed support. • Jesus’ verdict: “You nullify the word of God for the sake of your tradition” (Matthew 15:6). Why It Still Matters • Isaiah 29:13—people can draw near with lips while hearts stay distant. • Colossians 2:8—warnings against “tradition of men” overshadowing Christ. • The danger remains: religious customs may look holy yet sideline obedience. Modern Traditions That Can Eclipse God’s Commandments • Church Programs over Compassion – Overstuffed calendars leave no time to visit widows, the sick, or aging parents (James 1:27). • Financial Pledges over Family Care – Large building campaigns or conferences promoted while parents struggle financially (1 Timothy 5:4). • Style of Worship over Substance of Worship – Heated debates about music, liturgy, or dress can crowd out humble, contrite hearts (Psalm 51:17). • Denominational Rules over Unity – Rigid distinctives prioritized above the clear command to love one another (John 13:34-35). • Holiday Customs over Holiness – Extravagant Christmas or Easter traditions overshadow the call to generosity and gratitude (Luke 3:11). • Personal Preferences over Biblical Priorities – Choosing convenience—sports, hobbies, entertainment—while neglecting regular assembly (Hebrews 10:25) or family discipleship (Deuteronomy 6:6-9). • Political Allegiance over Kingdom Allegiance – Letting partisan loyalties mute Jesus’ commands for justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). Restoring the Balance • Re-examine customs through Scripture’s lens: “The sum of Your word is truth” (Psalm 119:160). • Honor clear commands first—love God, love neighbor, honor parents, practice justice and mercy. • Let traditions serve obedience, not replace it (Mark 7:9-13). Walking It Out • Simplify where customs crowd out compassion. • Redirect resources to care for family and the needy. • Keep hearts soft, mouths honest, and actions aligned with God’s timeless Word. |
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