sermon on matthew 5 17 20

2 min read 04-02-2025

Matthew 5:17-20 presents a pivotal passage often misunderstood, even misused. Jesus' words, "Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill," are frequently cited to justify either lax adherence to the law or an overly rigid interpretation. But a deeper dive reveals a more nuanced and profoundly transformative message. Let's explore this vital section of the Sermon on the Mount.

The Misinterpretation of Fulfillment

The common misinterpretations stem from a superficial reading. Some argue that since Jesus "fulfilled" the law, it's no longer relevant. Others use it to rigidly enforce every jot and tittle, ignoring the spirit behind the law. Both miss the core of Jesus' message.

The Law's Enduring Significance

Jesus explicitly states he didn't come to destroy the law. The Law of Moses, given through God, wasn't inherently flawed. It served as a crucial guide for ethical and spiritual life, reflecting God's character and will. The problem wasn't the law itself, but humanity's failure to fully grasp and live by its principles.

Fulfillment: Depth, Not Destruction

Jesus' "fulfillment" wasn't about abolishing the law but about unveiling its true depth and meaning. He took the outward pronouncements and revealed the inward intention, the spirit behind the letter. He expanded upon, clarified, and perfected the understanding of God's commandments.

The Weight of Righteousness: Exceeding the Scribes and Pharisees

Jesus then raises the bar significantly: "For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 5:20). This isn't a call for self-righteousness or legalism, but a challenge to embrace a deeper level of righteousness.

The Scribes and Pharisees: A Case Study in Externalism

The scribes and Pharisees were meticulous in their observance of the law's outward requirements. Their piety, however, often lacked genuine inward transformation. They emphasized ritual over relationship, outward actions over inner transformation. Jesus' critique is not against outward adherence but against the hypocrisy of prioritizing the appearance of righteousness over genuine righteousness.

Inner Transformation: The Heart of the Matter

Jesus' call is for a righteousness that transcends external compliance. It's about aligning our hearts and minds with God's will, a commitment to love, compassion, and justice that flows naturally from a transformed heart. This inward transformation is what "exceeds" the external righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees.

The Ripple Effect of Righteousness: Beyond the Law

The final verses (Matthew 5:19-20) connect inward righteousness with the teaching of others. Anyone who breaks the least commandment and teaches others to do the same, will be called "the least in the kingdom of heaven." This highlights the importance of personal responsibility and the impact we have on others.

Leading by Example: Living the Gospel

True righteousness isn't just about personal conduct; it's about influencing others to live righteously. We are called to be living examples of God's love and grace, inspiring others to embrace the transformative power of the Gospel.

Conclusion: A Life Transformed

Matthew 5:17-20 calls us to a deeper understanding of righteousness, a transformation that goes beyond mere external compliance. It’s a call to live with integrity, compassion, and justice, reflecting the very character of God. It's a life lived not merely in obedience to the law, but in loving response to the grace that has transformed us. The challenge is to strive for a righteousness that surpasses even the most meticulous observance, a righteousness that stems from a heart transformed by the love of God. This is the true fulfillment of the law.