Mon., 10/21/19 Devotion (2 Thess. 2:15)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 Thessalonians 2:15, where we read these words:

"Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle."

Religious traditions are not inherently bad, good, (or heretical). Paul passed some traditions along through his preaching and teaching ministry; and others through his inspired epistles. All denominations—from those which employ elaborate liturgy, to those that handle snakes and drink poison—use tradi-tion(s). Even the most “informal” and “laid back” congregations basically do the same things week after week (only changing the props, or whatever).

Tradition is only a problem if and when it conflicts with divine (scriptural) reve-lation. When this happens, tradition must be discarded, in favor of God's re-vealed will. Otherwise, however, let God's faithful church not worry too much about tradition.

[Puritan quote of the day: "Zeal quickens the pursuit after glory. Zeal, encoun-tering difficulty, is emboldened by opposition and tramples upon danger.”
—Thomas Watson, in, "The Doctrine of Repentance"]