“You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” (Mark 7:8, ESV)

In the book of Leviticus, we find the laws concerning ritual uncleanness, vows and clean and unclean foods which Jesus addresses here. Jesus upheld the Law but not the man-made traditions of the Pharisees and their predecessors. For example, ritual washing of hands and cups had originally applied only to the priests in the tabernacle, but tradition now applied it to all Jews. Jesus made the point about Corban to illustrate the fact that tradition had set itself above the Law and nullified its God-given intent. The Law was meant to help people to lead lives of holiness by depending on the Lord for mercy and help. Tradition made holiness something man could achieve by performing rituals and following rules.

Sadly, many believers today hide behind a cover-up of good deeds and religious actions. They set a standard or norm of does and don’ts, traditions, rules and interpretations by which they judge their own spirituality or holiness as well the holiness of others. They reject and condemn those who do not keep their interpretation of the rules while priding themselves on their piety. They behave just as the Pharisees did and are just as hypocritical. Their many pious actions and words are often corrupted by inner evil desires such as greed, covetousness, and pride. Yet righteousness is not a matter of mere outward actions and behavior. It is a matter of a heart that is surrendered to Jesus who alone can make us righteous and holy.