During Jesus’ ministry the Pharisees were always around to find fault with Him and His disciples. In the following Mark 7:1-5, they were upset because the disciples had unclean hands. Jesus and His disciples were eating after ministering to others and had no where to wash their hands. So, the Pharisees and the scribes reminded them of The Law concerning washing. Jesus responded.
“Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written:
‘These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. They worship Me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.’ ” Isaiah 7:6-7.
“You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men.” Mark 7:8
Are we guilty in our churches today of following tradition faithfully, and yet, neglecting God’s commandments to love one another? Do we spend time criticizing others because they worship differently in some ways? Do spend time filling our spiritual needs and forget what we can give others.
Traditions are wonderful. They are like good habits that are practiced. But we must be certain that whatever they are, they point us to Jesus. They point us to a personal salvation through Him.
“I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes; first for the Jew then for the Gentile. For in the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: ‘The righteous will live by faith.’ ” Romans 1:16-1.
Have a blessed day!
In Christian love,
Diane