When Tradition and Scripture Conflict

Mark 7:8 For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.
9 And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Many of man’s traditions are in direct opposition to scripture. God’s servants who have pledged allegiance to the scripture cannot in good conscience accept these unscriptural traditions. During the earthly ministry of the Lord Jesus, the religious leaders laid aside (Mark 7:8) or rejected (Mark 7:9) the commandment of God in order to hold (Mark 7:8) or keep (Mark 7:9) the tradition of men. By doing so, the Lord said they made “the word of God of none effect” (Mark 7:13). One who loves the Lord examines every tradition through the lens of scripture to ensure that it does not oppose scripture. He does not accept the commandments of men knowing that God is the source of ultimate truth.

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):Some men teach that Jesus’ mother Mary should be prayed to and worshipped. What does the Bible say (1 Timothy 2:5)? Mary needed Jesus to be her Saviour too (Luke 1:46-47). God’s word is always true (Psalm 119:160a). Believe it over men’s words.

(For everyone):Do you allow your doctrines to be tested against the truths of scripture? Is it possible you have accepted the teachings of men as authoritative despite the fact that they are unscriptural?

(For everyone):What or who is your authority for truth? Have you ever had to change or adjust your doctrine in order to be more scriptural? If not, is it possible that you have an improper authority?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask the Lord to give you the proper authority for truth.

Ask God to perfect your doctrine.

SONG

The Old Book and the Old Faith

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