Jesus Christ and Apostle Paul referred to a particular tradition in the Bible that conveys negative meaning. They called this tradition a “tradition of men.” This is addressing man-made tradition. Something special could be attached to this tradition which this devotional is set to explore. The word “tradition” according to Mariam Webster Dictionary means ‘customary pattern of thought, action, or behaviour of people.’ Every race has its tradition of doing things. Some of these traditions might not negate the value of Christianity. Tradition of men is likely the false philosophy of the world that became pitfalls to Christians in the times of Jesus Christ and Apostle Paul. In Mark 7: 8, Jesus was addressing the hypocritical Pharisees who made their laws stronger than the commandments of God.
Today’s devotional is not looking at tradition holistically but “the tradition of men” embedded in the commandments of God with human face. Tradition of men is found in doctrines dominated by human interests, promoted above God’s laws and use against the low class people. Right from cradle of the world, people have exalted their traditions and things to do over the clear things God has commanded. In Mark chapter 7: 1 – 14 is seen how the Pharisees condemned Jesus Disciples for eating without washing their hands. The acceptable thing to do is to wash their hands to the elbow before eating. Their condemnation is seen as tradition of man as the Priests and Temple Leaders put down as doctrinal law. The tradition of man, in principle carries hypocritical undertone. It never place emphasis on genuine repentance. People following God under tradition of man hardly please Him.
Tradition of men has been responsible for making Christianity somehow non effective in this world. It still stops many Christians from being completely faithful to God. People propagating the tradition of man distort the real law in order to circumvent the law. The present age is overwhelmed with man-made laws called traditions of men. These days, the society is being ruled by distorted laws circumvented to suit interests of the few. In the churches are full of human doctrines making the leaders more powerful and fearful than God himself! The led are forced to do exactly what the leaders say against what God says in His words. There is a story of a Bishop whose workers must keep standing as long as he stands outside the church premises till he goes inside. Yet the members pay very little respect to God. Too bad, isn’t it?
PRAYER:
Pray and ask God to open your eyes to see if you are being controlled by traditions of men in your Christian race or by the commandments of God.
bishopubaudenyi@hopealivechurch