“Do not presume that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish, but to fulfill. For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not the smallest letter or stroke of a letter shall pass from the Law, until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever nullifies one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say to you that unless your righteousness far surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.”
Jesus makes it clear: He did not come to abolish the Law, but to fulfill it. The Law was never meant to be discarded; it pointed to Him—the One who perfectly embodies God’s holiness and justice. Every commandment, every prophecy, every ritual finds its ultimate meaning in Christ.
The Pharisees prided themselves on strict rule-keeping, yet Jesus says our righteousness must exceed theirs. How? Not by more legalism, but by transformation of the heart. True righteousness flows from an inner love for God, not just external compliance.
In Christ, the Law is not void—it is completed and elevated. We obey, not to earn salvation, but because we love the One who fulfilled it for us.
Why It Matters
Our culture often rejects God’s standards or treats them as outdated. But Jesus affirms the enduring relevance of God’s Word. Following Him means valuing His commands and living with integrity—not superficially, but from the heart. This matters because righteousness rooted in love, not legalism, transforms us and influences those around us.
A Prayer for Today
Lord Jesus, thank You for fulfilling the Law perfectly and making a way for me to be righteous through faith in You. Teach me to obey Your commands out of love, not obligation. Help me reflect a righteousness that is authentic and pleasing to You. Amen.
Questions to Guide Your Reflection
- How does knowing Jesus fulfilled the Law change the way you read the Old Testament?
- Where in your life are you tempted to focus on outward appearance rather than heart obedience?
- What is one command of God you need to obey more fully this week?
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