Mark 7:1-13

In this sermon from Mark 7:1–13, David Baalbergen examines Jesus' confrontation with the Pharisees and their elevation of human tradition above the Word of God.

While religious leaders focused on ritual handwashing and outward appearances, they completely missed the transforming work of Christ happening all around them. Through this passage, we are challenged to examine our own hearts and ask whether we have allowed cultural traditions, personal preferences, or worldly wisdom to take precedence over Scripture.

Using the powerful illustration of Desmond Doss at Hacksaw Ridge, this message reminds us of a simple but vital truth:

Main Idea: Dead men need breath, not clean hands.

Jesus did not come merely to make bad people better or dirty people cleaner. He came to give life to the spiritually dead. The gospel is not about perfecting ourselves through religious rituals or human effort; it is about being made alive through the saving work of Jesus Christ.

Whether you are exploring Christianity, struggling with legalism, or simply seeking to follow Christ more faithfully, this passage calls us back to the sufficiency of God's Word and the life-giving power of the gospel.

This message was preached by David Baalbergen at East Brainerd Baptist Church in Chattanooga, Tennessee on May 24, 2026.

📍 East Brainerd Baptist Church

1047 Graysville Road

Chattanooga, TN

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