Re:Verse passage – Exodus 20:8-11 (day four)
The rules governing the Sabbath day were frequently a point of challenge between the Pharisees and Jesus. The Pharisees had developed hundreds of laws of their own design that governed this holy day. Were these extensive restrictions God’s plan for this commandment?
In Matthew 12:1-8 and Mark 2:23-28, Jesus told the Pharisees that he was Lord of the Sabbath; that the Sabbath was made for man, not man for the Sabbath. Jesus was in direct conflict with the man-made religious systems (think cleansing of the temple) of His day. The light of Truth penetrated the false teaching of the hypocrites that were creating an idol of worship over God’s authority. Jesus referenced the prophet Hosea saying God values compassion rather than sacrifice.
Are there areas of your life where you have added to God’s Word and given divine authority to the devices of your own reasoning? Repent and return to the simple commands of divine truth!
Amen! Appreciate your wise comments.