Small Group Questions
ENGAGE
- What are some of the traditions in your church or family?
READ
- Read or summarize the passage.
- Share any observations or questions from the passage or the sermon.
REFLECT
- Why were the Pharisees and teachers of the law concerned about what Jesus’ disciples were doing?
- What three things does Jesus reveal about the Pharisees by quoting Isaiah 29:13 in this context? In what ways do you think it is possible to worship the Lord in vain? What happens when man-made traditions are revered above God’s word?
- Why does Jesus emphasize the importance of the heart and not just the actions of the religious leaders?
- What Old Testament teaching and what analogy does Jesus use to prove His accusations against the Pharisees? How did Jesus place tradition in the proper perspective? (v.10-19)
RESPOND
- How does loving God impact our obedience to God?
- What are the positive and negative effects of longtime tradition? What are the benefits of Scripture over tradition?
- Read Galatians 5:1 and 16-25 How does it relate to Jesus’ teaching at the end of the passage?
PRAY
As you pray, pray for
- a greater desire for God and His Word
- a heart that worships with truth and sincerity
- a life, family, and church that truly honors Christ
PRAY
As you pray, pray Colossians 1:9-14.
