Day 277, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (NIV) (use your browser arrow to return): Mark 2:1-28; Matthew 9:1-17; Luke 5:17-39; Matthew 12:1-8; Luke 6:1-5
Change versus Tradition
Who gave you the right to change the way we have always done things? What authority do you have? These questions imply that tradition trumps change. We are comfortable with the way we have always done things—it works for us. We don’t like alterations; we want comfort and predictability.
Those in new leadership positions can face stiff challenges as they fight for needed improvements because of established rules, practices, and customs. Not all deeply-rooted beliefs and practices are detrimental. Some are good and helpful. How can we tell if a change or a tradition is beneficial or not?
In Jesus’ day, the Romans governed the provinces of Judea, Galilee, and the surrounding areas of Israel. Two primary religious groups, the Pharisees and the Sadducees, along with the Herodians (a political party loyal to King Herod), kept the local people, the Jews, in line. They were responsible for handling civic and religious causes. The Romans supervised the general order of the provinces and executed malicious criminals.
Jesus challenges traditions
In today’s Bible reading, Jesus is a new leader on the scene. He is popular with ordinary people because of his miracles and teachings. Thus, the religious leaders and Herodians are suspicious and curious about him. They closely watch him.
One day, as they listen to him teach, they hear Jesus say something outrageous—he tells a paralytic man that his sins are forgiven.
Now some teachers of the law were sitting there, thinking to themselves, “Why does this fellow talk like that? He's blaspheming! Who can forgive sins but God alone?”
Immediately Jesus knew in his spirit that this was what they were thinking in their hearts, and he said to them, “Why are you thinking these things? Which is easier: to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Get up, take your mat and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins....” He said to the paralytic, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.”
He got up, took his mat and walked out in full view of them all. This amazed everyone and they praised God, saying, “We have never seen anything like this!” (Mark 2:6-12, NIV)
Do we need our sins forgiven? Our answer is not more religion—it is a relationship with Christ which saves us. God offers us forgiveness, peace, and spiritual life through his Son, Jesus (more...).
What are our motivations for change or keeping traditions?
Both change and long-held practices should be based on the proper grounds. Is tradition needed, or is change necessary? The Pharisees and teachers of the Law of Moses do not question their own practices. Still, they question Jesus’ habit of eating with tax collectors and sinners.
Jesus answers them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance” (Luke 5:31 –32, NIV). In other words, his mission is not to minister to those who are devout (like the religious leaders who do not want their reputations sullied) but to save sinners. To do this, Jesus has to mingle with them. If we’re going to save sinners from sin and hell, we must be friendly with them. We must get out of our religious circles from time to time to save the lost.
Why do we do as we do?
This is a question which all of us need to be ready to answer. The Apostle Peter instructs believers, “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” 1Peter 3:15 (NIV).
At first, Jesus answers the religious leaders with patience and respect. Later, however, when they are attacking him and are no longer interested in what he says, he rebukes them and their traditions.
Do we have the authority to institute changes?
Leaders who want to change the status quo must first establish their authority to do so. This does not mean they have to work miracles, but somehow people must recognize them as authorities.
Change and tradition in religious circles should be based on Biblical authority. Jesus’ power is from God. In the same instance of the healing of the paralytic man, he makes reference to the writings of the prophet Hosea (which the teachers of the Mosaic law should have known): “For I [God] desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings” (Hosea 6:6, NIV). This does not mean that God wants us to stop gathering together for worship in churches or other assemblies. It implies that mercy, grace, justice, and respect for the Lord trump religious practices.
In deciding to change religious customs, we must determine if we have Biblical authority. Are the proposed changes consistent with God’s Word and character as found in the Scriptures? Are our customs more important than sacrifices we might make to help a neighbor or stranger who is in trouble? We must temper tradition with truth, understanding, and mercy.
Discussion
Keeping Traditions versus Making Changes can be explosive issues in a family, church, business, or other organization. How should we decide whether to stick with tradition or make changes? What are some guiding principles? Explain.
In what kind of instances do we need Biblical authority to make changes? Why?
What is the meaning of Hosea 6:6 above? (Also see our Focus verse below)
Focus Verse
Micah 6:8 (NIV) “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” (NIV)
*Disclaimer: Major changes and traditions, not minor insignificant preferences, are the thrust of this Bible study.
Here is a video of Jesus and the Pharisees
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Looking Ahead: Jesus is becoming extremely popular. He refutes the religious ministers who try to bind people with their traditions, and he teaches with authority. He casts out demons and heals all manner of diseases. How does he Handle Success? How should we? Find out in our Next Lesson.
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