The readings this morning are Matthew 5:17-20 and Psalm 60
“Christ Came to Fulfill the Law”
In this short passage, Jesus makes it abundantly clear that he is not here to abolish the law…but to fulfill them. They are here to stay! I think seeing the definition of “fulfill” makes it clear of what Jesus is saying.
ful·fill
fo͝olˈfil/
verb
1. Bring to completion or reality; achieve or realize (something desired, promised, or predicted).
2. Carry out (a task, duty, or role) as required, pledged, or expected.
When I look at the definition, the words really jump out as to the purpose of the Old Testament laws and how they pointed to Jesus: desired, promised, predicted, required, pledged, and expected. All six of these words, combined, provide a great indicator…Jesus was to be all of these things.
Jesus also made it clear that just because he had arrived to fulfill the laws, that they were not to be taken any more lightly: “Therefore, whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” Not mixing words! Personally, I think it goes along with a phrase I heard from the great philosopher Gary York one Sunday morning: “Action follows faith.” If you have faith in Jesus…and that you believe He is Who He says He is…your actions will be in alignment with the laws. In John 14:6-7, Jesus tells us: “I am the way the truth and the life, no one comes to the father except through me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” Who can you introduce Jesus to today? He is the only way. Have a blessed day!