Matthew 15

Jesus is back in trouble not keeping traditions. This time it's washing hands before eating. Jesus turns the tables and tells the religious leaders that the true commands of god are broken by them. They find loopholes. We all like loopholes, don't we? Jesus quote their own scripture to them to point out that God wants hearts and not lip service.

 

The disciples tell Jesus that he offended the leaders. Jesus tells them that what comes from the heart is much more important than what comes through the body. Hypocrites are more deadly in their actions than people who just cannot get their act together. Following rules can be done without ever engaging the heart.

 

Jesus goes to Gentile territory. A woman asks for help. Jesus says that his mission is to Israel (the Jews.) But her faith in him convinces Jesus to serve her (and Gentiles) as well.

 

We have a second large feeding similar to the earlier one. This time, Jesus is feeding Gentiles. The disciples again are worried about logistics. Jesus is not.