Verse of the Day: Mark 7:5 NKJV
“Then the Pharisees and scribes asked Him, “Why do Your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?””
The response of Jesus to the Pharisees and Scribes’ question about not walking according to the tradition of elders reveal how teachings affect worship. He quoted Isaiah, saying, “‘This people honors Me with their lips,But their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ (Isaiah 29:13).
The traditions of elders make worship vain. This is because the commandments of God draws the heart back to God. The tradition of elders promotes legalism instead of building relationship with God. The tradition of elders makes us hypocrites - promoting an image that we love God or we are spiritual, but are far from him.
In order to follow the traditions of the elders, Jesus said they lay aside the commandment of God. To lay aside means to dismiss or forsake the commandments of God. It is a systematic way of rejecting God, yet acting as though you are for Him. It is therefore possible to perform religious activities correctly, yet have hearts that are far from God.
Examine the teachings that have shaped your life and worship. Is your heart truly drawn to God or it is just mere activity? Are you following God’s commandments or are you caught up in traditions that promotes legalism and hypocrisy?
Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on the following verses:
Mark 7:1-23
Prayer
Father, help us to distinguish between Your commandments and human traditions. May our worship be true and our hearts drawn close to You.
Commenti