Jesus Fulfills the Law

The Point of the Gospel

The Sermon on the Mount con’t

The Fulfillment of the Law

{Matthew} Jesus said, “Do not think I mean to throw away the Law or the Prophets. I have come to fulfill them. Not an iota disappears from the Law until everything is accomplished. Anyone breaking even the lowest in importance of these commandments or teaching others to break them will have the lowest rank in the kingdom of heaven, and vice versa, whoever follows and teaches these laws will be called great. Your moral uprightness must surpass that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law to enter the kingdom of heaven.”

{Luke} “The Law and the Prophets were officially and publicly pronounced before John the Baptist proclaimed the good news of the kingdom of God. Now everyone is forcing his way into it.” (Into what? John’s teachings about Jesus’ coming, thinking Jesus meant to overthrow old ways?) “Heaven and earth would more easily disappear than the least word of the Law.”

Personal Thought: the purpose of the Law was to break down barriers in our relationship to God. Did Jesus’ death—taking our sins upon himself so we could be forgiven and receive the Holy Spirit—fulfill the Law and make this passage moot? Everything changed after Pentecost—more about that at the end.

Murder {Matthew}

“The Law long ago said not to murder. Murderers are subject to judgment. But I tell you, even being angry with your brother brings judgment and calling him a fool places you in danger of the fires of hell. Therefore if you know your brother has something against you, before seeking your own forgiveness from God, go seek reconciliation with your brother.

“Settle with him beforehand when he takes you to court lest the judge turn you over to the officer to be imprisoned, for you won’t be released until you have paid every cent.”