Have you ever wondered what makes a source reputable? According to Webster, a reputable source is “trustworthy and reliable, providing accurate, unbiased information” (Webster online, June 16, 2025). In other words, they hold no peer or superior in sourcing information. Regarding worldly instructions, trustworthy is often in the “eyes of the beholder”. Thus, it is incumbent to “fact-check” sources on a repeatable and continuous basis. This is not the case with God. He IS and will always be THE SOURCE (Joshua 1:8, NKJV).
For example, we see Jesus as He is teaching in Mark 7. Note: His detractors strive to find fault in stating, “Why do your disciples not walk according to the tradition of the elders, but eat bread with unwashed hands?” (Mark 7:5). Jesus immediately gives them the source of their understanding with more lasting logic. He replies, “For laying aside the commandment of God, you hold the tradition of men-the washing of pitchers and cups, and many other such things you do.” (Mark 7:8).
Our Lord’s remarks offset the distinct differences between God and His wisdom versus the misunderstanding which repeatedly emanates out of the hearts of men. God’s resources will ultimately outweigh the functionality of human wisdom (Isaiah 55:8-9). Jesus reminds His disciples that sin does not originate in the hands, nor the cup one holds, but in a lack of reverence for God and His commandments. Sin originates, marinates, and finally emanates from the hearts of men. From false premises. From simplistic, kindergarten reasoning, which cannot “set the captive free” (Luke 4:18). Their logic was contrived in worldly, subjective, personal promotions. They failed to see the fluidity only found in God and His teachings, “Who is wise? Let him understand these things. Who is prudent? Let him know them. For the ways of the Lord are right; The righteous walk in them, But transgressors stumble in them” (Hosea 14:9).
Like Isreal, we often find ourselves confronted with Truth an our limited version of it. What issues forth from the hearts of men has never been sufficient for all grace and mercy. Here’s the question for us all: “Is it better to trust in our hearts or the mind of God?” A gracious God allows us the choice, whether we choose correctly or not.
Think about these things,
Archie R. Green
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