The Ancient Landmarks designated property. Moving them was the same as theft. It was theft against the living and future generations. It required a severe punishment.
- You shall not remove your neighbor’s landmark, which they of old time have set, in your inheritance which you shall inherit, in the land that Yahweh your God gives you to possess it. (Deuteronomy 19:14)
- ‘Cursed is he who removes his neighbor’s landmark.’ All the people shall say, ‘Amen.’ (Deuteronomy 27:17)
- Remove not the old landmark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless: for their Redeemer is strong; he will plead their cause against you. (Proverbs 23:10-11)
Traditions of Men are additions to God’s laws that reject His wisdom. This is an attack against God because it means God’s word can be improved by our additions in doctrine and application.
- And the Lord said, because this people come near to me with their mouths, and give honour to me with their lips, but their heart is far from me, and their fear of me is false, a rule given them by the teaching of men; (Isaiah 29:13)
- And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, “‘This people honors me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.’ You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men.” (Mark 7:8-11)
- Be careful that you don’t let anyone rob you through his philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the elements of the world, and not after Christ. (Colossians 2:8)
Don’t let “Traditions of Men” become “Ancient Landmarks.” Anyone who allows this to happen is going to be robbed. This legalistic line of thinking is common to cults. Please don’t let it happen to you.
- What is legalism? – Legalism obscures the gospel by requiring personal effort and religious deeds to be right with God. Working to earn approval, is merit, not grace.
- Who is a cult? – Cults are exclusive, secretive, and authoritarian, opposing biblical teachings of inclusivity and transparency. Christians should avoid them, trust in Jesus, and embrace the true church.