Can We Trust Oral Tradition?

In the Roman Catholic Church and Orthodox Church, oral tradition holds great significance. It is believed that alongside the written Scriptures, there exists an oral tradition that has been passed down through generations. However, oral tradition, by design, is easily used to promote heresy. Even the early Christian leaders recognized the limitations and flaws of relying on oral tradition.

AGAINST HERESIES, BOOK III [AD 175-185]

“When, however, they are confuted (proved to be wrong or in error) from the Scriptures, they turn round and accuse these same Scriptures, as if they were not correct, nor of authority, and [assert] that they are ambiguous, and that the truth cannot be extracted from them by those who are ignorant of tradition. For [they allege] that the truth was not delivered by means of written documents, but vivâ voce (word of mouth)…”
- Irenaeus of Lyons (Bishop of Lugdunum/Lyon)

Even in the days of the apostles, oral tradition led to the promotion of error. In the Bible, we see how oral information can be in error. A story spread among the followers of Jesus. They were saying that a certain follower would not die, but Jesus did not say he would not die.

John 21:23 – Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?

The Pharisees had used oral traditions as a means to interpret the Law of Moses. Even though Jesus regards the Scriptures highly, he criticized heavily the dependence on oral tradition for reflecting traditionalists’ wishes rather than God’s will.

Mark 7:6-9 – He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.

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Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.

- The Christian King