We all say we want to know truth. Some, however, mean it more than others. Coming to truth entails wanting to know truth over tradition; why we believe what we believe and should do what we should do.
It’s not enough to do what others have done for years or passed down in the form of tradition. We must come to know and discern truth in establishing a personal relationship with God. Otherwise we walk in blindness of heart and become susceptible to walking in blind faith. God wants us to see with clarity and discern in spirit and truth.
RELEVANCE
Jesus came with a simple message. He shared how God looks for people with open and honest hearts to engage in relationship with Him. He addressed the hypocritical religious leaders of the day, declaring that they had made the commandment of God of no effect by their tradition. He quoted what Isaiah had prophesied centuries earlier.
“These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
And in vain they worship Me,
Teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.'”
(Matthew 15:6-11)
REFLECT AND RELATE
Have you ever tried to balance truths vs. traditions?
Have you wondered what God requires vs. what man has required of you?
Ask God to open your heart and eyes so He can reveal to you the truths of His Word.
Ask God about the “proper order” of understanding truth (1 Chronicles 15:13)
REFERENCES
John 5:39