Matthew 15:6

And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.

Matthew 15:6 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 15:6 concludes Jesus’ response to the Pharisees and scribes who questioned why His disciples did not follow the tradition of ceremonial handwashing before eating. Jesus turns the discussion to a weightier issue: the fifth commandment to honor father and mother. He exposes how their tradition, known as “Corban,” allowed a person to dedicate to God what might have supported their parents, thereby declaring themselves free from that duty. The phrase “he shall be free” indicates the man-made exemption they permitted.

Meaning

Jesus contrasts the clear commandment of God with the tradition of the elders. The Greek word translated “none effect” (akuroō) means to invalidate or deprive of authority. By their tradition, the Pharisees emptied God’s command of its force, making it void. Jesus does not condemn all tradition, but He condemns tradition that is elevated above God’s Word. Their practice was not merely an addition but a contradiction of God’s revealed will.

Biblical connections

The fifth commandment is foundational, and its severe penalty for cursing parents is noted in Exodus 21:17 and Leviticus 20:9. Jesus’ rebuke aligns with His call to prioritize the weightier matters of justice, mercy, and faithfulness. The principle is that human tradition, even when religiously motivated, must never supersede or undermine the clear commands of Scripture.

Application

This passage challenges us to examine our own practices and teachings. Are there moments when we place personal traditions, preferences, or interpretations above God’s clear commandments? The text reminds us that God desires heartfelt obedience, and our actions should be motivated by love for Him and for others. We must guard against letting traditions or rituals become stumbling blocks that hinder us from following God’s true intent.

Reflection

Jesus calls us to scrutinize our motives and align them with God’s will. True obedience is rooted in genuine love and reverence for Him, not merely in ritual compliance. As we study the Bible in its broader context and seek guidance from trusted teachers, we can avoid the trap of empty religiosity and ensure our lives reflect genuine obedience to God’s commands.