Blessings to you, Church!
We are now fully immersed in the Christmas season, surrounded by lights, decorations, and maybe even a few presents already tucked under the tree. One of the things I cherish most during this time of year are the traditions my family and I have been able to build together.
Every family has its own traditions.
And whatever yours look like, they have helped form memories, strengthen family unity, and pass important values to the next generation.
While many traditions bless us, not all traditions carry the same benefit. Especially when we talk about church traditions.
Far too often, church traditions begin to replace sound doctrine. What was once meant to support our faith becomes treated as law within congregations (Mark 7:8). When this happens, traditions can create a legalistic environment. One that brings bondage instead of freedom.
The moment we cling to tradition over God’s truth is the moment we undermine the very truth we claim to uphold. And in doing so, we can easily slip into hypocrisy.
Human traditions can divide.
Human traditions can resist necessary change.
Human traditions can produce ritual driven believers. People who honor God with their lips while their hearts are far from Him (Isaiah 29:13).
Paul warns us in Colossians 2:8, “See to it that no one takes you captive… according to human tradition.”
Anything driving you away from Jesus and His freedom is not from God.
So, enjoy your traditions! Celebrate them. But hold them with open hands. Let your traditions stay flexible so they can grow and evolve. And above all, ensure that everything you practice ultimately points back to Christ.
Finally, if your tradition does not lead you to Jesus, it may end up forming in you a rigid heart. One fit for lip service, but not heart service unto God.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Lu