The opposition against Jesus escalates when the Pharisees and scribes criticize Jesus’ disciples for not washing their hands. Although the man-made traditions surrounding God’s Law may have had good intentions, Jesus rebukes these men who have let their traditions replace God’s Word. To the entire crowd, Jesus teaches that true uncleanness comes not from without but from within. Jesus patiently teaches His disciples the same reality concerning the true defilement of man. People are not sinners because they sin. People sin because they are sinners. Therefore, only the Gospel of Jesus Christ can bring salvation to us.

Rev. Brian Flamme, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Roswell, NM, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Matthew 15:1-20.

To learn more about Immanuel in Roswell, visit immanuelroswell.org.

“The Reign of Heaven Stands Near” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies the Gospel according to St. Matthew. The first evangelist proclaims that God has fulfilled His Old Testament promises by sending Jesus to bring the reign of the heavens among us. As the Son of David, Jesus is the gracious King we need, and as the Son of Abraham, Jesus is the blessing to all the families of the earth.

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Pastor Appel serves at Faith Lutheran Church in Godfrey, IL. Learn more at flcgodfrey.org. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org