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’ Fulfillment of the Law
In His sermon, Jesus was answering accusations that His interpretation of the Torah was undermining its authority. Rather than dismissing the Law, He filled it with deeper meaning, revealing that righteousness is not just external obedience but a matter of the heart.
The Greek word pleroo, translated as fulfill, means to fill abundantly, to complete, to impart richly. Jesus did not merely confirm the commandments; He revealed their full depth. His teaching on sin—whether murder or adultery—showed that the root of transgression begins in the heart.
The Torah contains the written instruction of God, but Jesus is the living Torah, bringing the true intention of the Law into focus for all who follow Him.
Contemplation: Are My Thoughts and Motives Holy?
It is easy to measure righteousness by outward actions, but Jesus challenges us to go deeper. He asks us to examine our hearts, our thoughts, and our secret desires.
Reflect on the following:
Have I harbored anger or resentment toward someone?
Have I entertained sinful desires in my heart, thinking they do not matter?
How seriously do I take Jesus’ teaching on internal righteousness rather than just external obedience?
Modern Christianity often shies away from these truths. Jesus’ words confront the uncomfortable reality of sin—not just in visible actions but in the secret places of our hearts.
Personal Reflection: Living in the Truth of Christ
Jesus was deeply committed to the truth of God’s Word. He called His disciples to holiness, not shallow devotion. Many walked away because His teachings were difficult, but He did not soften His message.
Ask yourself:
Do I truly hunger for righteousness, or do I seek an easy version of faith?
Am I willing to let Jesus confront the uncomfortable truths in my life?
What idols—pride, lust, anger, materialism—need to be torn down in my heart?
A true disciple does not merely obey externally but seeks transformation from within.
A Prayer for Holiness and Heart Transformation
Heavenly Father, I come before You, knowing that Jesus did not abolish Your truth but fulfilled it in love and holiness. Forgive me for any time I have minimized sin, assuming it only matters in outward action and not in my heart.
Search me, O God, and reveal any hidden sins or idols that keep me from fully obeying You. Teach me to see righteousness not as duty but as joy—a reflection of my love for You.
Fill me with Your Spirit so I may walk as Jesus walked. May I take Your Word seriously, not just when convenient, but with deep devotion, humility, and faithfulness.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thought: Jesus did not come to make the Law easier—He came to show its full depth and meaning. Holiness begins in the heart, and righteousness must be pursued with intentionality. Will you allow Jesus to confront the hidden places and refine you into His image?
No comments:
Post a Comment