5 May 2015
Matthew 15:2-3
Matthew 15:2: “Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.
3 But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?”
This is a really great exchange. Notice how upset that the Pharisees are – not that the disciples are sinning, but that they’re going against tradition! They’re appalled.
However, Jesus isn’t having any of it. He fires a question right back at them, letting them know that their traditions are horrifying and directly violate the Word of God. The tables are instantly turned, and the Pharisees get another lesson in why it’s a bad idea to ask Jesus questions.
The message is clear: the traditions of man aren’t important. The Word of God is. Whenever tradition starts trying to trump the Bible, it’s time for tradition to go.