Search This Blog

Monday, October 24, 2016

DAD'S RAMBLINGS -- TRADITION

TRADITION

Matthew 15:1-3


“Then the scribes and Pharisees who were from Jerusalem came to Jesus saying, ‘Why do your disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? For they do not wash their hands when they eat bread.’ He answered and said to them, ‘Why do you also transgress the commandment of God because of your tradition?’ ”


The Jewish leaders criticized Jesus’ disciples because they did to follow tradition. The washing of hands was not just a hygienic issue. It was a ceremonial rite of cleansing in the Jewish religion. As a tradition, it was not mandatory. It is so easy to fall into the trap of making tradition equal to what God has revealed in His word. Even though the tradition may have value and merit (as washing one’s hands before eating), it is not obligatory simply because the older generation observes it. For example, we traditionally close our eyes during prayer. It is good because it helps us close out the world and focus on God, but it is not a Scriptural mandate. Too often I am like the scribes and Pharisees, or like Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof singing “Tradition,” criticizing other people who do not keep my traditions which have no Scriptural foundation. God, help me not to be critical of people who do not do things like I do.


TODAY’S PRINCIPLE: Observance of tradition is not mandatory unless it is commanded in God’s Word.


[end]


Have a free day. Love you.


No comments:

Post a Comment