Mark 7,  Matthew 15
October 27, 2014


Sometimes we get so used to doing things a certain way we "spiritualize" the pattern.   Maybe we grew up praying while kneeling, or praying at an altar.   Maybe we grew up dressing up when we went to church, or using little cups for communion.   Maybe it was singing hymns, or testifying during the service, there are literally thousands of things that we do because we have always done them.   But that doesn't make them the ONLY way to worship.
Jesus wasn't upset that the Pharisees washed before they ate, He was upset because they looked down on others who didn't.   God didn't give the command, they did.   And when the disciples didn't follow it, but followed Jesus' example instead, they complained.

Some people like to sing, others don't.   Some like to take notes during worship, others don't.  Neither is wrong, both are fine.

Jesus points out that it is our inner person, our thoughts, mind, will and emotions that cause us to sin.   In his first letter, Paul points  out to Timothy "physical training is of some value, but godliness has value in all things".

Our minds need to be trained.  Only then will we be able to effectively resist temptation, and offer a compelling witness.

In another section:
When Jesus healed the daughter of the Syrian woman, he revealed that the Gospel would be for all nations, not just the Jews.  But it was the great privilege of the Jewish people to be first.    The message of salvation is now broadcast for all people everywhere, so that no one may be left behind.   It began as a Jewish religion, but as Christianity it has reached every nation under heaven.

What a great privilege is ours, to be part of God's great redemptive plan for the human race!


PR