Playing by your own rules

To illustrate how the Pharisees placed their oral traditions above the Law, ask members to name a favorite game they play in their home. This should get people talking. Follow up by asking them what rules they use to play the game. Do they make them up, or do they use the “official” game rules?

We play Mexican Train since it is a fun game that anyone can play. However, we don’t play by the official rules having learned the game from a couple who used rules they made up. We are not unique. After playing the game in various homes over the last few years, I’ve noticed that everyone seems to “play by their own rules”.

The Pharisees used their own rules (oral traditions) and rejected God’s Law. Jesus described their traditions as “rules taught by men.” They were sinful because they rejected God’s best for them.

Now, think about the “game of life.” Ask members to privately consider what command of God they regularly reject in order to live life according to their own rules? This is sinful rebellion.