Rev. Cyril A. Stevens – Sermon 0030B recorded on March 18, 1979 teaching from Luke 6:1-16 – Men’s Tradition vs. God’s Truth.
In this sermon based on the Gospel of Luke, Pastor Cyril A. Stevens explores the sharp conflict between human tradition and divine truth, illustrating how rigid religious rules often obscure the heart of God’s law. Using the biblical account of Jesus’ disciples plucking grain and the healing of a man with a withered hand, Stevens argues that the Pharisees prioritized legalistic prohibitions over the essential spirit of the Sabbath. He emphasizes that while traditions act as restrictive additions made by men, true scripture reveals a restorative purpose for the Sabbath, intended for human flourishing and the worship of God. By contrasting his own upbringing of fearful observance with a life of spiritual fellowship, Stevens encourages his audience to reject “carnal attitudes” in favor of a dynamic relationship with Christ, who is the Lord of the Sabbath. Ultimately, Pastor Stevens serves a call for believers to ensure their religious practices are rooted in life-giving truth rather than the empty repetition of established customs.