Matthew 15:6

Matthew 15:6 (KJV) is a powerful condemnation by Jesus of religious leaders who prioritized human traditions over the clear commandments of God. It highlights the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and scribes who found loopholes in the law to avoid their filial responsibilities.

Context of Matthew 15:6

This verse is part of a broader discourse in Matthew 15:1-9 where the Pharisees challenge Jesus' disciples for not washing their hands according to the tradition of the elders. Jesus responds by exposing their own hypocrisy, particularly their practice of "Corban." The term "Corban" (from the Hebrew, meaning "a gift dedicated to God") allowed individuals to declare their possessions or money as consecrated to God, thereby making it unavailable for supporting their needy parents. While seemingly pious, this tradition effectively nullified the divine command to "Honour thy father and thy mother" (found in the Ten Commandments, Exodus 20:12 and Deuteronomy 5:16).

Key Themes and Messages

• The Authority of God's Word: Jesus unequivocally states that God's commandments are supreme. No human tradition, no matter how ancient or religiously sanctioned, can supersede or annul divine law. This is a foundational principle for Christian living.
• Hypocrisy and Legalism: The Pharisees' actions demonstrated a deep hypocrisy. They meticulously observed external rituals and human-made rules while neglecting the spirit and ethical demands of God's law. Their legalism led them to exploit religious loopholes for personal gain or convenience.
• True Filial Piety: The commandment to honor parents extends beyond mere respect; it includes practical care and provision, especially in their old age. Jesus exposes how their tradition undermined this fundamental family and moral obligation.
• The Spirit vs. The Letter of the Law: This passage illustrates the danger of focusing solely on the letter of the law or external observances without understanding its underlying intent and moral spirit. The "Corban" tradition was a perversion that allowed them to appear devout while violating a core ethical principle.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "made the commandment of God of none effect" comes from the Greek word akuroō (ἀκυρόω), which means "to annul, invalidate, make void, or deprive of authority." Jesus uses this strong term to emphasize that their tradition actively rendered God's command powerless in practice, effectively canceling it out in the lives of those who followed the tradition. This isn't merely neglecting the command, but actively nullifying its force through their man-made rules.

Practical Application

Matthew 15:6 serves as a timeless warning against allowing human traditions, cultural norms, or even well-intentioned religious practices to overshadow or contradict God's clear instructions. For believers today, it prompts self-examination:

• Are there traditions (family, cultural, or religious) that, perhaps subtly, lead us away from or diminish the impact of God's Word in our lives?
• Do we prioritize external religious observances over acts of genuine love, compassion, and justice commanded by God (cf. Micah 6:8)?
• How do we genuinely honor our parents and elders, both in respect and practical care, recognizing this as a divine mandate?

Ultimately, this verse calls us to continually align our lives, beliefs, and practices with the unchanging, authoritative Word of God, ensuring that His commandments are honored above all else.