The Problem with the Doctrines and Traditions of Men

✝️ The Problem with the Doctrines and Traditions of Men

Text: Matthew 15:1–9
Theme: The three-fold problem with following the traditions and doctrines of men

🌟 Introduction

  • Traditions and doctrines of men are not easily discernible by what is said or done.

  • They can appear spiritual, but they are deceitful and ultimately dangerous (cf. Matt. 15:8–9).

I. ❤️ It’s a Heart Problem – Matthew 15:8–9

A. Traditions and doctrines can become a form of worship.

  • Traditions of men → religious customs not rooted in Scripture.

  • Doctrines of men → man-made teachings that replace God’s Word.
    B. 2 Timothy 3:5 – “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof.”

  • Outward worship without inward reality.

“Tradition is the most formidable enemy of truth… the most inveterate because it is the most concealed.” — J. C. Ryle

II. 👂 It’s a Hearing Problem – Mark 7:3–13

A. The Word of God has no effect on those who prefer tradition over truth (cf. 1 Thess. 2:13).
B. A hearing problem leads to a faith problem:

  • Romans 10:17 – “Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

  • Faith isn’t only believing; it’s what you believe.

  • Romans 10:8; 1 Tim. 4:6; 2 Tim. 3:10 — sound teaching produces sound faith.

III. 🧠 It’s a Head Problem – Colossians 2:8

“Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.”

A. The traditions of men thrive in philosophy and the rudiments of the world (education, art, literature, science, music, fitness).
B. Rudiments are the seeds that bear fruit:

  1. Worldly sayings: “Be good to your fellow man.” “Do unto others.” “Love is love.” “If it feels good, do it.” “Don’t judge.”

  2. Religious rudiments: “Touch not, taste not, handle not.”

  3. Biblical discernment:

    • Is it right according to Scripture?

    • Will it please God?

    • Does it edify?

    • Is it expedient?

    • Will it bring glory to God?

    • Can I sincerely thank God for it?

    • How will it appear at the judgment seat of Christ?
      C. Seeds of worldliness + tradition = man-made religion (Col. 2:20–23) — vain and deceitful.

“Philosophy has always been the rival of the Gospel, and human wisdom has ever been set up in opposition to the wisdom of God.” — Robert Haldane
D. Seeds of truth lead to reformation, enlightenment, liberty, prosperity, freedom, and revival.

🔚 Closing

  • Truth makes free (John 8:32).

  • Religion puts in bondage (Galatians 5:1).

  • God desires to be worshipped in spirit and in truth — not in the flesh and man-made religion.

Jeffrey smith