*A Christian Must Not Return to Former Traditions*
> Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers.” — 1 Peter 1:18
As believers in Christ, we are no longer governed by the traditions, customs, and religious practices handed down by our forefathers. We are called to walk by faith and by the truth of God’s Word. _“For whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” — Romans 14:23_
If a festival, ritual, or religious practice cannot be done in faith toward Christ and in agreement with His Word, a Christian should not participate in it merely because it is part of our culture. The issue is not the native culture itself; the issue is whether Christ is Lord over what we practice.
Jesus warned against allowing human tradition to take the place of God’s Word: _“Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.” — Matthew 15:6_
Therefore, having come to Christ, do not return to religious traditions simply because they are inherited, popular, or culturally accepted. Test everything by the Word of God. _“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:21_. We belong to Christ. Our worship, our celebrations, our practices, and our lives must proceed from faith in Him—not from ancestral tradition.
Your brother in Christ,
Apostle Ashok Martin