Shifting Standards

The world has been transformed by the social media phenomenon. A recent survey reported that more than 70 percent of all adults in the U.S. are regular users of social network sites. Millions are now self-proclaimed social media addicts. More than a third admit that checking social media sites is the first thing they do each morning! And more than half of all teens in the U.S. admit to being addicted to their smart phone.

In the process, these social networks are becoming more powerful in shaping beliefs and influencing thoughts. This growth illustrates timeless tendencies: To be curious. To want to know what other people think. To want to be popular. To stay in step with the trends of our time. To stay informed about the latest rumors and gossip.

Jesus dealt with these problems in His encounters with Jewish leaders. They felt that His disciples were “breaking” their traditions. Jesus then used the same Greek word (here translated “transgress”) to describe their actions. This word gives the sense of not going along with an action, but rather going to the side of it.

Jesus then used another similar Greek word, here translated “tradition.” These were ideas and beliefs that had been transmitted from person to person. Not God’s commands, but the social networks of their time.

Jesus was saying that God had given permanent commandments. Timeless standards. The foundations of life, for every generation, for every person. But, some had shifted their foundation away from God onto themselves. They weren’t focused on His Word but on human customs.

Remember, it is easy to get caught up in social media or popular opinions. Don’t let this happen to you! Make sure that you focus on God’s timeless Word. Make it your standard! Always!