Matthew 15:2
"Why do Your disciples break the tradition of the elders? They do not wash their hands before they eat."
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Matthew 15:2?

2. Why do the Pharisees prioritize "tradition of the elders" over God's commandments?

3. How can we discern between God's commands and human traditions in our lives?

4. What other scriptures warn against elevating tradition above God's Word?

5. How can Matthew 15:2 guide us in evaluating church practices today?

6. In what ways might we unknowingly prioritize tradition over God's teachings?

7. Why do the Pharisees prioritize tradition over God's commandments in Matthew 15:2?

8. How does Matthew 15:2 challenge the authority of religious traditions?

9. What historical context explains the Pharisees' question in Matthew 15:2?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Matthew 15?

11. How do we reconcile Jesus placing God’s command above human tradition with similar teachings about observance of ritual cleanliness in other scriptures (Matthew 15:3–9)?

12. What defines Apostolic Succession in Christianity?

13. Is Jesus contradicting established Jewish laws by declaring that eating with unwashed hands does not defile a person (Matthew 15:1–11)?

14. Who is authorized to perform a baptism?
Discussion Questions
1. How do the traditions of the elders in Matthew 15:2 compare to traditions in your own faith community? Are there any that might overshadow biblical teachings?

2. In what ways can we ensure that our worship and practices are not just lip service but come from a genuine heart for God?

3. How can we discern when a tradition is helpful or when it becomes a hindrance to our spiritual growth?

4. Reflect on a time when you prioritized a human tradition over a biblical commandment. What did you learn from that experience?

5. How can the warning against legalism in this passage help us in our daily walk with Christ, especially in how we view others' practices?1. How does Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees challenge your understanding of tradition and commandments?

2. What does the story of the Canaanite woman teach you about persistence and faith?

3. How does Jesus' miracle of feeding the four thousand resonate with your understanding of God's provision?

4. In what ways can you identify with the Canaanite woman in her desperation and faith?

5. How does Jesus' explanation of true defilement challenge your understanding of sin and purity?

6. Why do you think Jesus initially did not respond to the Canaanite woman's plea?

7. What practical steps can you take to ensure that you value God's commandments above human traditions?

8. How does Jesus' interaction with the Canaanite woman shape your understanding of His character?

9. What can you learn from the crowd's response to Jesus' healings and miracles?

10. How can Jesus' compassion towards the multitude inspire you to show compassion in your community?

11. How do the Pharisees' accusation and Jesus' response affect your understanding of hypocrisy in religious practice?

12. How does the Canaanite woman's faith challenge or encourage your personal faith journey?

13. How can the story of Jesus feeding the multitude inspire you in times of scarcity or need?

14. How does this chapter shape your understanding of Jesus' mission and authority?

15. How can you apply the lesson of true defilement in your day-to-day life?

16. What does the faith of the Canaanite woman teach about the inclusiveness of God's grace?

17. How does the crowd's praise after witnessing Jesus' miracles challenge your response to God's work in your life?

18. Why is it important to understand the difference between human tradition and God's commandments as seen in this chapter?

19. In what areas of your life do you need to show faith like the Canaanite woman?

20. How can you be a conduit of Jesus' compassion in your interactions with others?

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