Matthew 15:9
But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.
Original Language Analysis
Cross References
Isaiah 29:13Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:Mark 7:7Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.1 Timothy 1:4Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do.Titus 1:14Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.Hebrews 13:9Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.James 2:20But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?Exodus 20:7Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.Deuteronomy 12:32What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.1 Samuel 25:21Now David had said, Surely in vain have I kept all that this fellow hath in the wilderness, so that nothing was missed of all that pertained unto him: and he hath requited me evil for good.Psalms 73:13Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency.
Historical Context
Jewish tradition had developed extensively during the intertestamental period, attempting to apply Torah to every life situation. While some traditions aided devotion, others (like Corban) contradicted Scripture's intent. Jesus distinguishes between helpful custom and authoritative doctrine, the latter requiring divine origin.
Questions for Reflection
- What worship practices in your church are biblical versus traditional?
- How can traditions enhance worship without replacing scriptural mandates?
- What 'commandments of men' might you be teaching as doctrine?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The indictment culminates: they worship 'in vain' (Greek 'maten'—uselessly, to no purpose). When human commandments replace divine doctrine, worship becomes empty ritual that God rejects. The Reformed understanding of worship's regulative principle emerges here: we worship God according to His prescribed will, not human invention. Teaching 'doctrines the commandments of men' perverts truth, leading others into vain worship. This has massive implications for church practice—tradition must bow to Scripture.