Matthew 15:6

Afrikaans (NLV) 2011

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What Does This Mean?

This verse is from Jesus speaking to the Pharisees about how they allow people to avoid caring for their parents by saying their money should go to God instead of them. He says this makes God's commandment meaningless because of these traditions.

Explained for Children

Imagine if your mom or dad needed help, but you said you had to save all your allowance for a toy instead. Jesus is saying that’s wrong and doesn’t show respect to your parents like we’re supposed to.

Historical Background

Matthew wrote this in the first century AD, primarily addressing Jewish followers of Jesus who were familiar with Pharisaic traditions. The cultural setting was one where honoring parents was a key commandment.

Living It Out Today

Today, if someone uses religious commitments as an excuse to avoid family responsibilities, they’re making God's commands about family care ineffective just like the Pharisees did with their traditions.

Topics

• family values
• traditions
• obedience to God
• respect for parents
• commandments of God
• religious hypocrisy

Related Verses

• Mark 7:10
• Exodus 20:12
• Ephesians 6:2-3
• Deuteronomy 5:16
• Proverbs 4:1

Frequently Asked Questions

How did Pharisaic traditions affect the way people treated their parents in biblical times?

Pharisees allowed people to use religious offerings as an excuse not to care for their elderly parents, which Jesus criticized because it went against God's commandment to honor one’s parents.

Why is honoring our parents considered important by God?

Honoring parents is a foundational principle in the Bible that fosters respect and care within families and society, reflecting how we should also show respect for divine authority.

How can this verse be applied to today's situations involving family responsibilities?

Today, one might use church or religious obligations as an excuse to avoid supporting elderly parents. This verse reminds us that true faith includes caring for our families.

What does it mean when Jesus says the Pharisees' traditions made God's commandment 'of none effect'?

It means their practices and interpretations nullified or undermined God’s original intent, essentially making His commandments meaningless in practice.