Memorized, but Misunderstood — Matthew 12:1–8

It’s possible to know Scripture and still miss God’s heart. In this message, Pastor Christian walks through Jesus’ clash with the Pharisees over the Sabbath and shows why mercy outruns mere ritual. From David eating the bread of the Presence to priests “working” on the Sabbath, Jesus reveals that the point was never box-checking—it’s covenant love (ḥesed) that fuels true obedience.

Scripture: Matthew 12:1–8; 1 Samuel 21; Hosea 6:6; Exodus 20:8–11; Exodus 34:21Big ideas:

• You can know and still not understand.
• “I desire mercy, not sacrifice.” Relationship fuels obedience; compliance without love grows cold.
• Sabbath is a gift for renewal, not a grind of rules.

Try this week: Trade a checklist for compassion. Practice Sabbath rest with a soft heart toward people. Ask: Where have I kept the ritual and lost the reason?

(From Radiant Church • Next Gen Pastor Christian)