Encounter #25:

Am I Believing God's Word or Man's Word?

Read: Mark 7:1-13

The Pharisees (“the fault-finders”) and the Scribes (“the senseless-scribblers”) were questioning Jesus on why His disciples didn't wash their hands before they ate. It wasn't a matter of hygiene but of the traditions of the Jewish elders. The Pharisees were saying that the disciples we ceremonially unclean. Their hands were defiled. By jabbing the disciples they were coming against Jesus. But Jesus responded by calling them hypocrites! The religious elders were more concerned about the outward than the inward love for God. They were bound to ritual rather than reality. In vain they worshiped God by teaching the doctrines of men instead of the commandments of God. Jesus quoted from Isaiah 29:13. God's commandments were replaced by man-made traditions.

Jesus recited to them the commandment that they are to honor their father and their mother (Exodus 20:12). Which is still to be practiced today.

But the Pharisees neglected to care for their parents by paying money to the Temple treasury instead. Their offering to the Temple was called “Corban,” which means “a gift dedicated to God.” By saying “It is Corban,” they exempted themselves from their responsibility to assist their parents. In place of helping their needy parents the Pharisees dedicated their money to the Temple. Therefore, they were dishonoring their parents. They made the Word of God powerless, useless and ineffective through their tradition.

What is more important to you? God's commandments or man-made religious traditions and ceremonies? God's Word is powerful. Obey it. Honor your father and your mother. It has its rewards: Ephesians 6:1-3.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for your perfect Word. Help me to obey it. Forgive me for follow man-made traditions instead of You. I surrender my will to Your plans and purposes. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

Application: If your parents are still living, acknowledge them by calling them and telling them “thank you” for all they have done for you. If they are not around, thank the Lord for them and be a good example to others.

Encounter Jesus: Realize the Bible is powerful. Read it more and believe it. Ask Jesus, the Living Word to make Himself real to you. He loves you.