New Testament: Mark 7.10–13

To read the Bible in a year, read Mark 7.1–13 on February 27, In the year of our Lord Christ 2023

By Don Ruhl 

The Pharisees and scribes criticized the disciples of Jesus for not washing their hands when they came from Jerusalem. They questioned Jesus because his disciples did not keep the tradition of the elders. He countered that they rejected the commandment of God for the sake of keeping their traditions. Jesus explained what He meant: 

“For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ But you say, ‘If a man says to his father or mother, Whatever profit you might have received from me is Corban—’ (that is, a gift to God), then you no longer let him do anything for his father or his mother, making the word of God of no effect through your tradition which you have handed down. And many such things you do.”

– Mark 7.10–13 

Although they did not realize it, they elevated their traditions and commandments above the word and commandments of God. Therefore, they made the word of God of no effect in their lives. That does not mean they were not accountable to it, but that it did not have a good influence in their lives, because they neglected it. 

Examine your thoughts carefully. Find out whether you keep yourself from obeying the commandments of God.

Questions: 

• Is there a part of God’s word that you ignore? 
• If so, why? 

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