The measure of church authority has always been a touchy subject, resulting in disagreement and dissension. We must approach this passage honestly and openly if we want to see God's heart on the matter. 

One of the most important questions a person can consider is shrouded with a beautiful landscape. 

Historically, people have not been very satisfied with God and God alone, nor content with what He has provided. People want more, and they want it their way. We must go to lengths to "be on guard" against faithlessness that disguises itself as humble reasoning. 

It seems we've been here before. Jesus feeding people and healing the sick, performing miracles. Why is this story so important that it needs to be included in the testimony of Christ? 

Jesus travels to a Gentile town and is confronted by an insignificant Canaanite woman asking for help. See how Christ's harshness toward her revealed a deep faith that could not be turned away by Christ, the testimony of whom endured for all generations to learn from. 

Tradition is not evil, and can be very helpful. However, some, including the Pharisees of Christ's day, depend on tradition to make up for the lack of a sincere love for God. But we need to move on to a sincere love for God, whether that means keeping or ridding ourselves of various traditions. 

Sermon preached Sunday Dec. 29.