Fulfilling the Law

 

Jesus Fulfills the Law: A Reflection on Matthew 5:17-18

Scripture:  "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." – Matthew 5:17-18(KJV)

Understanding Jesus' Words

When Jesus declared that He did not come to destroy the Law but to fulfill it, He was responding to accusations that His interpretation of God's commandments was in conflict with traditional teachings. The phrase “destroying the law” was a rabbinical way of saying someone was misinterpreting Scripture. But Jesus, the Word made flesh, was not abolishing God's instruction—He was revealing its true meaning and purpose.

Jesus showed that the Law was not a mere checklist of external behaviors but an invitation to righteousness from the heart. The commandments were not empty rules but living truths that shaped believers into holy vessels devoted to God.

Contemplation: Am I Fully Embracing God’s Instruction?

We often want simplicity in our faith—a checklist, a vague notion of love without true obedience. But Jesus calls us higher. He teaches us that following God requires more than acknowledgment—it demands devotion.

Take a moment to reflect:

• Do I sometimes dismiss God's instructions because they seem difficult or inconvenient?

• Have I unknowingly built idols in my heart—whether success, status, or material possessions?

• Do I approach God’s commands as burdens, or do I see them as life-giving wisdom?

Jesus interpreted the Law with a depth that led to transformation, not superficial compliance. He fulfilled it in love, holiness, and perfect obedience to the Father.

Personal Reflection: Removing Idols and Aligning with Christ

An idol is anything that takes priority over God. While few today physically bow to statues, modern idolatry is alive in the pursuit of wealth, comfort, reputation, and self-centered ambition.

Ask yourself:

• Is my pursuit of success stronger than my pursuit of God?

• Do I prioritize spiritual growth over temporary pleasures?

• How can I intentionally put God first in my daily choices?

Idols are subtle, but they drain our hearts of true devotion. Jesus calls us to remove anything competing for our love, because when God is first, everything else falls into place.

A Prayer for Obedience and Holiness

Heavenly Father, I come before You, recognizing that Jesus fulfilled the Law with perfect obedience and love. Forgive me when I try to simplify my faith instead of truly walking in Your instruction.

Reveal any idols in my heart—anything I have placed above You. Give me the strength to tear them down and to place You first in every part of my life. Let me not just hear Your Word, but live it out with humility and devotion.

Thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit, who enables me to obey You and grow in righteousness. Teach me to walk as Jesus walked, embracing Your wisdom, Your love, and Your truth each day.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Thought: Jesus fulfilled God’s instruction—not by canceling it, but by illuminating its true purpose. Today, choose to see His commands not as restrictions, but as guidance toward deeper faith, freedom, and joy.