What is the context?
A Pharisee invites Jesus to a meal and is surprised when He does not first wash. Mark’s account of a similar dispute explains the ceremonial handwashing as a tradition of the elders. Luke’s scene turns from that concern with washing toward what is happening inside the people at the table. (Mark 7:1–8)
Jesus compares their attention to appearances with cleaning a cup’s outside while leaving its inside dirty. He names greed and wickedness, reminds them that God made both inside and outside, and calls for giving to those in need.
Three warnings follow. They carefully tithe garden herbs while disregarding justice and love for God; they seek honored seats and public greetings; and they are like unmarked graves. Jesus does not say that care over the tithe excuses neglecting the weightier responsibilities. He says they should have practiced those responsibilities without neglecting the others.
The grave picture carries a warning about harmful influence that goes unnoticed. Numbers identifies contact with a grave as a source of ceremonial uncleanness, supplying the background to the image. (Numbers 19:16)
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christian readings commonly understand Jesus as exposing the gap between outward religious care and inward greed, while calling for justice, love and generosity. Calvin explains the giving in verse 41 through practical help for the poor, and Wesley likewise connects it with a change contrary to greed and wickedness. (Calvin on Luke 11:39–41; Wesley on Luke 11:39–44)
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Micah had already placed justice, mercy and humble life with God at the center of what He requires. Jesus’ warnings continue this Scriptural insistence that religious activity cannot replace the life God calls His people to live. (Micah 6:6–8)
Jeremiah describes God’s promised covenant in terms of His law written on people’s hearts, knowing Him and receiving forgiveness. Paul later describes people in Christ as a new creation, reconciled to God through Him. These passages provide the larger setting for inward change: God’s purpose reaches the person, rather than merely the appearance presented to others. (Jeremiah 31:31–34; 2 Corinthians 5:17–21)
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.