Show Don't Tell: Matthew 15:1-20

Instead of saying "Jesus taught about inner purity," watch the handwashing confrontation. Pharisees from Jerusalem notice Jesus' disciples eating without ceremonial washing. They challenge: "Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?" Jesus counter-attacks: "Why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?" They use Corban—dedication to God—to avoid supporting parents, nullifying God's command. Hypocrites. Isaiah prophesied: lips honor God, hearts far away. Then to the crowd: "Listen and understand. What goes into someone's mouth does not defile them, but what comes out of their mouth, that is what defiles them." The disciples warn: the Pharisees are offended. Jesus: "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be pulled up by the roots. Leave them; they are blind guides." What comes out—evil thoughts, murder, adultery, slander—that's what contaminates. The heart is the problem, not the diet.