Matthew 15:1-9 Traditions and Commandments

The kingdom of God demands worship that is sincere and genuine. Fake appearances and lip service are not acceptable. Unless my following of Jesus is heartfelt, I am wasting my time. For this reason, it is important that I learn to distinguish between traditions and commandments. Traditions are not bad in themselves. In fact they can be very good if they are based on doctrine, God's commands. But traditions that are totally based on human speculations and enforcement will not get me closer to God, especially if those traditions contradict God's commands.

Case in point: Jesus is accused by the Pharisees of disregarding the tradition of the elders concerning the washing of hands. In the Old Testament we find a ceremonial law that required the priest to wash his hands and feet before performing priestly duties. Unfortunately, this ceremonial law was enforced upon all Jews. It was meant for the priest only. Washing of hands before eating is certainly the right thing to do from a hygienic point of view, but that is not what the Pharisees have in mind when they wash. The washing is ceremonial and it was meant to cleanse their contact with Gentiles or anything unclean (ceremonially speaking). 

Jesus retorts asking why the Pharisees break God's commandment by following their own traditions. Case in point: God's law requires that we honor our parents. This is not only to respect them, but to take good care of them in whatever they need as best we can. The Pharisees came up with a way to avoid the responsibility to honor your parents by saying: "It is Corban." Corban is a Hebrew word used to state a vow by tagging finances or property as an offering to the Temple. If a person tagged his finances and property as Corban, the Pharisees would free that person from the responsibility to provide and take care of his parents in old age. To Jesus, this is hypocritical.

Any tradition that disregards God's commands or teaches contrary to God's Word should be abandoned. What is the basis to judge a tradition as good or bad? The Scriptures as contained in the Old and New Testaments is our rule for faith and life. I must be diligent in the understanding of doctrine, God's commands, so I will not confuse human traditions with it. 

Lord, cause me to be diligent in understanding your Word. Fill my heart with the desire to be close to you. May I be genuine in my worship as I seek your face. Help me obey your commands.