Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines...
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Webster's New Collegiate Dictionary defines "scrupulous" as "having moral
integrity" or being "highly principled." These are good things. However, since the Middle
Ages the Roman Catholic church has recognized that "scrupulosity" can be taken to such
extremes that it becomes detrimental. Scrupulosity is even considered a sin, since it
denies the love and grace of God.
If, like the Pharisees, we focus on practicing the minutia of religion, but ignore the call to love God and neighbor, we are putting the good ahead of the best, and are heading for trouble. Mom was right, and so were the Pharisees: "Cleanliness is next to Godliness." We ought to wash before we eat. But here Jesus points to a larger principle (while not ignoring good hygiene or common sense). Ultimately, it's not what we put into our mouths but what comes out of our mouths that defiles. This passage is a reminder to be scrupulous about the right things.
If, like the Pharisees, we focus on practicing the minutia of religion, but ignore the call to love God and neighbor, we are putting the good ahead of the best, and are heading for trouble. Mom was right, and so were the Pharisees: "Cleanliness is next to Godliness." We ought to wash before we eat. But here Jesus points to a larger principle (while not ignoring good hygiene or common sense). Ultimately, it's not what we put into our mouths but what comes out of our mouths that defiles. This passage is a reminder to be scrupulous about the right things.
