Traditions of men

Various authors

"Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders?"
Jesus replied: "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?"
Matthew 15:2-3

"You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men."
"And He said to them: You have a fine way of setting aside the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!"
Mark 7:8-9

Below are several traditions of men that are contrary to biblical teaching. These traditions often stem from pride, human reasoning, cultural and worldly influences, or pragmatic concerns--rather than from a clear biblical mandate:

   Low views of God, and high views of man.

   Overemphasis on the love of God, while ignoring His holiness, justice, and wrath.

   Churches run like businesses.

   Entertainment-driven churches.

   Neglect of church discipline.

   Churches that emphasize politics.

   Unqualified pastors/elders (1 Timothy 2:12-14; Titus 1:5-9).

   Pragmatism, over faithfulness to Scripture.

   Numbers-driven ministry.

   Neglect of personal holiness in leadership.

   Reliance on worldly gimmicks to get more people.

   Infant baptism.

   Emphasis on self-esteem, rather than on humility.

   Dependence on academics, human psychology, etc.

   Easy believism.

   Celebration of "holy days" such as Christ-mass, Easter, and Lent.

   Lack of teaching on repentance, the cost of following Jesus, self-denial, Hell, etc.

   Women pastors/elders.

"These are all destined to perish with use, because they are based on human commands and teachings!" Colossians 2:22

"Thus you nullify the Word of God by your tradition that you have handed down. And you do many things like that." Mark 7:13

The above traditions, though common in many evangelical churches, do not align with biblical teaching.

2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

As Christians, we assert that the Bible is sufficient, and contains everything necessary for doctrine, salvation, and godly living. The Scripture is the sole and final authority and source of truth. We must test all doctrines, practices, and traditions by God's Word. We must never ignore Scripture, in order to maintain a human tradition.

"Test everything. Hold on to the good." 1 Thessalonians 5:21

Spurgeon: "The greatest threat to the church is tradition masquerading as truth! Hold fast then, to that which is revealed by the Holy Spirit in the sacred volume, and let no man deceive you by vain words. Christians must return to the Bible as their sole infallible rule of faith and practice."