Mark 7:1-13

Some Pharisees and scribes observed that Jesus' disciples didn't follow the common hand washing rituals before they ate. When they asked Jesus about this, He revealed that this was a man-made tradition. God had never said to do this. He also pointed out the conflict that had been created by allowing people to circumvent their familial obligations under the cover of religious obligations. Some people were not caring for their parents (honoring them) as God commanded, but putting the church first as the religious leaders taught.

Human traditions and laws are not bad in and of themselves. It is only when they conflict with the word of God that they become dangerous. Whatever we do, we must make sure that it is not taking us away from God in our time, money, and abilities. These belong first and foremost to the God who created us.