Understanding Jesus' Fulfillment of the Law in Matthew 5:17: A Comprehensive Explanation

Matthew 5:17

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” Matthew 5:17

Jesus' statement in Matthew 5:17 is a pivotal declaration that clarifies his relationship with the legal and prophetic traditions of the Old Testament. This passage emphasizes that while he did not come to do away with the Law and the Prophets, he did come to bring them to a higher and more fulfilling level. Let's explore the specific ways Jesus fulfilled and transformed these teachings.

Motive: Fulfillment and Not Abolition

The purpose of the Law and the Prophets was to point to and prepare for the coming of the Messiah. As Jesus explains, his role was to bring fulfillment, not to run afoul of the Torah.

Purity in Heart (Matthew 5:27-30)

Formerly, the Law of Moses prohibited adultery. However, Jesus elevated this prohibition to a more profound level by focusing on the state of the heart. He stated, “Everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.” (Matthew 5:28) This teaching underscores that true faithfulness between spouses is not just about external actions but also the purity and wholeness of the heart.

Sacrifices (Exodus 10:25 Mark 12:33, Hebrews 13:16)

The Old Testament prescribed various sacrifices and burnt-offerings to be made to God. However, Jesus transforms this requirement by emphasizing the importance of a heart-centered devotion. He quotes the Shema from the Book of Deuteronomy, stating, “And to love him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength, and to love one's neighbor as oneself is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” (Mark 12:33) This teaching asserts that a genuine love for God and one's neighbor is more valuable than the physical sacrifices.

Furthermore, the apostle Paul continues this line of thought, urging believers to “offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. (Romans 12:1) Thus, the sacrifices Jesus talks about are those that arise from a sincere and devoted heart, not just the physical acts of worship.

Worship (Hebrews 8:3-5 John 4:23-24)

The Old Testament priests offered gifts and sacrifices to God, but their role wasn't merely limited to these activities. The high priest's primary purpose was to intercede on behalf of the people before God. However, Jesus brings a new dimension to worship by stating, “But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.” (John 4:23) This means that true worship is not restricted by the external acts of sacrifice but is grounded in a heart of truth and sincerity.

Murder in Heart (Matthew 5:21-22)

The law originally said, “Thou shalt not kill,” but Jesus elevates this commandment, stating, “Anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment.” (Matthew 5:22) This teaching doesn't just prohibit the act of killing but also the negative emotions like anger that may lead to it. The emphasis is on the heart and the spiritual state that leads one to act in a certain way.

Worshiping Idols (Exodus 20:4 Colossians 3:5)

The commandment to not make idols is a clear prohibition against false worship. However, Paul expands this concept to include other forms of idolatry, such as sexual immorality, impurity, and evil desires, which he defines as idolatry. He writes, “Put to death therefore whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.” (Colossians 3:5) This illustrates that true worship is not just about external acts but also about the purity of one's desires and intentions.

Remembering the Sabbath (Exodus 20:8-11 Matthew 12:9-13, Mark 3:1-6, Luke 6:6-11)

The Old Testament prescribed the observance of the Sabbath day, which was to be a day of rest and worship. However, the Jewish people took this to an extreme, strictly limiting the Sabbath's activities. Jesus brings a new understanding by teaching that the Sabbath is for worship, to remember creation, and to rest so that people can serve God and others. In one of his miracles, Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, showing that the spirit of the Sabbath allows for mercy and healing, not just rest.

By fulfilling the Law, Jesus did not abolish its teachings but rather elevated them to a higher level of spiritual and moral integrity. This understanding of his fulfillment of the Law is crucial to comprehending the transformative nature of his message and mission.

Conclusion

In summary, Jesus' fulfillment of the Law in Matthew 5:17 is a profound declaration of his purpose to align human life with divine will. Through his teachings and actions, he transforms the external requirements of the Old Testament into a heart-centered approach that seeks to bring individuals closer to God. This message remains relevant today, urging believers to pay attention not just to external acts of worship and obedience but to the deep, spiritual transformation that brings true fulfillment.