8. This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, &c.--By putting the commandments of men on a level with the divine requirements, their whole worship was rendered vain--a principle of deep moment in the service of God. "For," it is added in Mr 7:8, "laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups; and many other such like things ye do." The drivelling nature of their multitudinous observances is here pointedly exposed, in contrast with the manly observance of "the commandment of God"; and when our Lord says, "Many other such like things ye do," it is implied that He had but given a specimen of the hideous treatment which the divine law received, and the grasping disposition which, under the mask of piety, was manifested by the ecclesiastics of that day.
JFB.
Outline
Jesus discourses about human traditions. (1-9)
He warns against things which really defile. (10-20)
He heals the daughter of a Syrophenician woman. (21-28)
Jesus heals the sick, and miraculously feeds four thousand.
(29-39)
Painted sketch of Eastern Orientals Washing Hands
Important Topics for Bible Study
Quick Reference Map
Map of Galilee and northern Israel
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Ancient Customs
Ancient People
Geography
the wilderness
the mount of God
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Map of the Red Sea and Egypt
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The New Testament