1. The Scriptures clearly teach that "God's law must not be altered." 2. In addition to Deuteronomy 4:1-2, this principle is revealed in: a. Proverbs 30:5-6 b. Revelation 22:18-19. 3. The Scriptures show how this principle has been violated, even by religious leaders. 4. In our lesson we are examining an occasion in each of the Gospels when Jesus and His disciples were accused of violating God's law for the Sabbath. 5. Our purpose is to help us avoid misinterpreting Scripture like the Jewish leaders did. 6. Let us begin by showing how . . . Discussion: I. GOD REVEALED HIS LAW FOR OBSERVING THE SABBATH IN EXODUS 20:8-11
A. God did not give a detailed list of things that could be done and things that could not be done on the Sabbath. B. However, He informed the Israelites that the Sabbath (the 7th day of the week): 1. was to be kept "holy" 2. was a day of rest for everyone, including the animals 3. was to be observed every week. II. THE JEWISH LEADERS ALTERED GOD'S LAW FOR THE SABBATH BY ADDING THEIR OWN DOCTRINES
A. (Matthew 12:1-8) The Pharisees criticized the Lord's disciples for picking and eating grain on the Sabbath. 1. Jesus pointed out their inconsistencies. a. They overlooked David's violation of the law when he and his followers ate the showbread (1 Samuel 21). b. They also overlooked the actions of the priests when they offered sacrifices on the Sabbath. 2. Jesus informed the Pharisees that His disciples were "guiltless." B. (Mark 3:1-6) The Pharisees criticized Jesus for healing the man with a withered hand on the Sabbath. 1. Jesus asked several questions in vs.4 that should have made them think about their beliefs. 2. Unfortunately, they plotted to destroy Jesus. C. (Luke 13:10-17) Jesus was criticized for healing a woman on the Sabbath. 1. Jesus pointed out the hypocrisy of the ruler of the synagogue (vs.15). 2. It would seem that this man had more concern for his animals than for this woman. D. (John 5:1-16) The Jews wanted to kill Jesus for healing a man on the Sabbath. 1. This man had suffered 38 years. 2. He was also criticized for carrying his bed as Jesus had instructed him. Conclusion:
1. Let us avoid the mistake of the people we have examined -- they altered the Scriptures by the way they interpreted God's law for observing the Sabbath. 2. They should have listened to David who wrote, "The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul" (Psalm 19:7). 3. Let us always "rightly divide the Word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).
