1. God's word in the heart (1-9)

The Pharisees criticized Jesus' disciples for not washing their hands before they ate. It was not a matter of hygiene but of religious ritual. They claimed that tradition superseded God's word. Jesus rebuked them for teaching men's tradition instead of teaching the Bible. He used one of the ten commandments, 'Honor your father and mother,' as an example. If we love God and live to please him, then we will honor his word and hold it in our hearts.

2. A clean heart and clean lips (10-20)

To Jesus, dirty hands were not a big problem, but a dirty heart and a dirty mouth were. God's word hidden in our hearts keeps evil and impure thoughts out (Jn 15:3; Ps 119:11). If God's word is not in our hearts we are plants that God has not planted. We are spiritually blind. Our hearts become full of evil thoughts--lust, jealousy, and complaints, and our mouths speak words that hurt or tempt or tear down others.

Application: Lord, purify my heart by Jesus' blood and plant your word there.
One Word: God's word must be in my heart