Not the unwashed hands, but that unwashed heart (Mt 15:1-20, Mrk 7:1-23)

1. Empty worship

 - Danger of human rules/ routines/ priorities: satisfied by outward behaviors > inner heart condition 

- Nullify the Word of God 

- Outcome: 

---> Hypocrisy (outward holiness but inner filth)

---> heart is far from God despite zealous zeal

---> worship in vain (prayers, washings, singing, works ... all in vain) 

*Motive -  pushed by fear, self-serving, covering sin-diseased heart

** religious

2. Heart of Gospel 

 (1) not the unwashed hands, but that unwashed hearts (sin)

      - washing of the heart through the blood of Christ (vs religion)

         --> be made conscious of sin through law --> Christ

      - religion vs gospel (works vs faith; fear vs freedom)

  (2) Response to the gospel: offended vs broken 

    - Pharisees offended / COG will be broken -> come to throne of grace --> washed by the precious blood

  (3) Love: If you love me, obey my commands (Jn 14:15)

     - from a new heart 

     - Introspect, pray

     - be challenged by God to love practically 

     - Meeting Pharisee-like people 

     - collective discipleship