Mark 7

What did I learn about Jesus?

Jesus defended righteousness in the face of the religious; he taught that the word of God is far more important than the word of tradition.
We are called to place the word of God before tradition—whether that is traditional cultural values, or new cultural values—in our actions.

What did I learn about disciple-making?

Jesus took the time to explain things to his disciples in private that he did not explain publicly.
We must take the time to explain things about our faith to those close to us when they ask us about them.

Extended thoughts and observations from Elder Steve Maxwell:

v.1-23 – The Pharisees were always so wrapped up in meeting the letter of the law. They were so focused on the little picture, the insignificant things. In this chapter, they are on the disciples for having unclean hands. Similarly, a few days ago when we read Mark 2, the Pharisees were upset that the disciples had picked grain on the Sabbath. There are lots of examples of this. The overriding theme for me in this daily study has been how much Jesus cares about our heart. Following tradition, doing good deeds, and having a good reputation is not enough – the Pharisees had all of these yet they rejected Christ and his message. Traditions and rules can bring us comfort. We tend to like the familiar, we like defined boundaries. But Jesus is not about boundaries, he cannot be put into a box, he is radical, he is about mercy and justice.

I had never noticed verse 37 before – People were overwhelmed with amazement. “He has done everything well,” they said. I like this statement, “he has done everything well.” I have always been impressed with the way Jesus was about doing things with excellence (from the way he healed, the way to he preached to the way he made the best wine for the wedding in Cana – John 2). We serve a God who does all things well. This encourages me to do things with excellence as well – in order to bring Him glory. This seems to tie in with the verse the Pastors use in the blessing each Sunday – Colossians 3:17 “And whatever you do, whether in word or in deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,”

What do you see?