JULY 20, 2023 – CLEAN AND UNCLEAN

READ: Mark 7:1-23

There is nothing that enters a man from outside which can defile him; but the things which come out of him, those are the things that defile a man. If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear! – Mark.7:15,16 

The gospel of Jesus penetrates the heart. How is our faith and service to the Lord in our hearts? Is it an inner or outer matter?

The Pharisees had a doctrine that placed all emphasis on the outward appearance, with no regard for the condition of the heart. They added human rules to the ceremonial laws of the Bible, especially in regards to various washing rituals. They had “a veil over their hearts” when Moses was read (2 Cor. 3:15). Instead of recognizing their need for Christ, they developed a doctrine of self-salvation. They believed themselves to be clean, but were afraid of becoming unclean from external sources. Hence, all their human rules.

However, Jesus presents His gospel in opposition to this: uncleanness comes from within. Sin comes not from external sources, but from within your own heart. They and we must listen carefully to this gospel: “If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear.” When they returned home, the disciples asked for an explanation (v.17ff). They had not yet understood it properly. For the Lord Jesus, this was disappointing, but He explained it to them. The external act of eating and drinking is not the true uncleanness. No, He came to show them the uncleanness of their hearts, so that they would repent.

Evil thoughts, adultery, greed, etc. (see v.21-23) all come from within, from your own bad desires and evil thoughts. All of that makes you unclean in your heart and in your entire being before the LORD. If you do not see this, then you have a veil over your heart and think that you do not need Jesus as your Savior.

Is it easy to admit your own uncleanness?

Singing: Ps. 130:2