Matthew 15:5 – “But you say that if anyone declares that what might have been used to help their father or mother is ‘devoted to God,’”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Jesus critiques a specific tradition upheld by the Pharisees. He highlights how they allowed people to sidestep their obligation to care for their parents by declaring their resources as “devoted to God,” a practice known as Corban (Mark 7:11). This declaration meant that the resources were set apart for religious purposes and therefore could not be used to support one’s parents, even if they were in need.
By pointing out this tradition, Jesus exposes how the Pharisees manipulated religious laws to justify selfishness and disobedience to God’s commands. Instead of honoring their parents as the law required, they used a legal loophole to avoid their responsibilities under the guise of piety. Jesus condemns this practice as hypocritical and contrary to God’s will.
Historical Context
In Jewish culture, honoring one’s parents was a sacred duty deeply rooted in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12). This included providing for their needs, especially in old age. However, the Pharisees allowed people to declare their possessions as “Corban,” meaning dedicated to God. While this practice seemed noble on the surface, it often became a way to avoid familial obligations.
The religious leaders, who were supposed to uphold God’s law, enabled this practice, effectively nullifying the command to honor parents. Jesus confronts their hypocrisy, showing how they prioritized human traditions over God’s clear instructions.
Theological Implications
This verse reveals the danger of distorting God’s commands for personal or cultural convenience. It underscores the importance of upholding God’s Word above human traditions, no matter how well-intentioned those traditions might appear.
It also teaches that true worship of God cannot be separated from loving and caring for others, especially family. Obedience to God’s commands is not about outward displays of devotion but about living in a way that reflects His love and justice.
Literary Analysis
Jesus uses sharp contrast in this verse, beginning with “but you say,” to directly challenge the Pharisees’ teaching. By juxtaposing God’s command with their tradition, He highlights their failure to honor God’s authority. This structure emphasizes the seriousness of their error and sets up the broader critique of their hypocrisy.
Matthew’s Gospel frequently uses these confrontations to show Jesus’ role as the one who clarifies and fulfills God’s law. His direct language in this passage underscores the weight of His message.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Exodus 20:12 – The command to honor one’s father and mother.
- Mark 7:11-13 – A parallel account that elaborates on the Corban practice.
- Proverbs 28:24 – A warning against robbing one’s parents.
- Ephesians 6:1-3 – Paul’s teaching on honoring parents, tied to God’s promise of blessing.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder to prioritize God’s commands over personal convenience or cultural traditions. It calls believers to examine their actions and attitudes toward family responsibilities. Honoring parents is more than a childhood obligation—it is a lifelong commitment to respect, care, and love.
This passage also challenges Christians to reflect on whether their faith practices align with God’s heart. True devotion to God is expressed through obedience and love, not through rituals or declarations that neglect others’ needs.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in His commands, which are designed to promote justice, care, and community. By commanding His people to honor their parents, God shows His concern for the well-being of families and the dignity of every individual. His rebuke of the Pharisees’ tradition reveals His desire for genuine relationships built on love and responsibility.
God’s love is also seen in Jesus’ willingness to confront hypocrisy and point people back to the heart of His commands.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus embodies the fulfillment of God’s law, demonstrating perfect obedience and love. His confrontation with the Pharisees shows His authority to clarify and uphold God’s commands. Throughout His life, Jesus modeled care and respect for His earthly family, even ensuring His mother’s care as He was dying on the cross (John 19:26-27).
Ultimately, Jesus’ teaching in this verse points to His mission to restore true worship and obedience to God. By addressing the Pharisees’ misuse of tradition, He reveals the deeper truth of God’s law: love for God and love for others.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there traditions or practices in your life that might conflict with God’s commands?
- How can you ensure that your devotion to God is reflected in how you care for your family?
- What does this passage teach you about balancing religious practices with genuine love and responsibility?
- How can Jesus’ example of obedience inspire you to honor God’s commands in your daily life?
- In what ways does this verse challenge you to reexamine your priorities and actions?