“For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold to the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such things you do. And He said unto them, Full well you reject the commandment of God, that you may keep your own tradition.”
Here in chapter 7 Jesus is asked by the Pharisees and the scribes, “Why do Your disciples eat with unwashed hands?” This was asked to find fault with them (His disciples), for the Pharisees and the Jews did not eat unless they washed their hands in a special way (tradition).
This prescribed washing was not for hygienic purposes (as we think of washing) but ceremonial, to meet mans standards of pious cleanliness. This was just one example of the Pharisees and scribes teaching as doctrine their own commandments and ignoring the commandments of God. Thus their traditions, added a yoke of bondage on the people never intended by God.
Jesus said, “Hear Me, everyone, and understand: There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!” (vv.14-16)
May we hear God’s Word and not the commandments of men.
The Truth: “Do not add to His words Or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar. Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.” (Proverbs 30:5-6)
Here in chapter 7 Jesus is asked by the Pharisees and the scribes, “Why do Your disciples eat with unwashed hands?” This was asked to find fault with them (His disciples), for the Pharisees and the Jews did not eat unless they washed their hands in a special way (tradition).
This prescribed washing was not for hygienic purposes (as we think of washing) but ceremonial, to meet mans standards of pious cleanliness. This was just one example of the Pharisees and scribes teaching as doctrine their own commandments and ignoring the commandments of God. Thus their traditions, added a yoke of bondage on the people never intended by God.
Jesus said, “Hear Me, everyone, and understand: There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear!” (vv.14-16)
May we hear God’s Word and not the commandments of men.
The Truth: “Do not add to His words Or He will reprove you, and you will be proved a liar. Every word of God is tested; He is a shield to those who take refuge in Him.” (Proverbs 30:5-6)
