The True Meaning of Matthew 5:17: Understanding Jesus' Fulfillment of the Law and Prophets

Matthew 5:17, a key verse in the New Testament, carries profound implications for our understanding of Jesus' relationship to the Hebrew Law and the Prophets. This article elucidates the significance of this verse, its context, and its implications for Christian followers and their application of faith. We will explore the specific changes and continuities as Jesus' teachings fulfill and deepen the original intentions of God.

Meaning and Context

In the context of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses the question of whether He has come to abolish the Law and the Prophets. His response, '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,' is a cornerstone statement emphasizing continuity and fulfillment rather than negation. This verse underscores the idea that while Jesus does not invalidate the Law, He brings a new understanding and application to it.

Law and Prophets

Jesus' mission is to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, not to replace them. This fulfillment involves bringing a deeper, more comprehensive understanding to the original teachings. For example, the commandment 'Thou shalt not murder' is expanded to include the importance of inner purity and empathy. One who looks at a woman with lust (Matthew 5:27) has already committed adultery in his heart, indicating that Jesus is not only concerned with outward actions but also with the intentions and thoughts that lead to them.

Fulfillment and Continuity

By stating that He has come to fulfill the Law, Jesus positions Himself within the Jewish tradition. This is significant for His Jewish audience who viewed the Law as central to their faith. Jesus' fulfillment of the Law is not a rejection but a continuation and deepening of the original intentions of God. This is evident in the example of sacrifices, where Jesus emphasizes that true worship involves more than ritualistic offerings, such as giving to the needy (Hebrews 13:16).

Implications for Followers

The implications for Christian followers are clear: Jesus' teachings are not meant to undermine the Law but to deepen it. The new commandment of loving God with all your heart, soul, and strength, and loving your neighbor as yourself, is seen as a fulfillment of the Law. It is not just about external actions but about internal transformation and true devotion.

Specific Examples of Fulfillment

Purity in Heart: Matthew 5:27 teaches that lustful thoughts are equivalent to adultery. This changes the focus from outward actions to inner intentions, setting a higher standard for moral righteousness.

Sacrifices and Worship: In Exodus 10:25 and Mark 12:33, the Old Testament emphasizes sacrifices. In contrast, Jesus refocuses on genuine worship, stating that loving God and one's neighbor is more important than ritualistic offerings (Mark 12:33, Hebrews 13:16, Romans 12:1-2).

Meeting the Sabbath: The Old Testament command to keep the Sabbath day holy (Exodus 20:8-11, Deuteronomy 5:12-15) was often misunderstood or misapplied. Jesus clarifies that the Sabbath is for worship, rest, and serving God and others. This was demonstrated in His healing of a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, exemplifying the true spirit of the Sabbath (Matthew 12:9-13, Mark 3:1-6, Luke 6:6-11).

Murder in Heart: Anger, contempt, and harsh words are as condemnable as actual murder. Jesus' commandments on anger and words reflect a deeper understanding of the harm caused by negative thoughts and speech.

Worshiping Idols: The prohibition against idols (Exodus 20:4, Deuteronomy 5:8) is extended to include the prohibition against fornication, impurity, lust, and greed, all of which are forms of idolatry (Colossians 3:5).

Conclusion

In conclusion, Matthew 5:17 underscores the idea that Jesus respects and upholds the foundations of Jewish law while also revealing a new understanding of its purpose and application. His fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets is a call to higher moral and spiritual standards for His followers. This verse invites believers to see His teachings as a fulfillment and deepening of God's original intentions for humanity.