Lesson 3: Jesus and the Law
Sermon on the Mount: Matthew 5:17-20
Thank you for joining me today as we reflect on Matthew 5:17-20. In this passage, Jesus clarifies his relationship to the Law and the Prophets, demonstrating the continuity between his teachings and God’s revealed will in the Old Testament.
Fulfillment, Not Abolition
Jesus declares, “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” (Matthew 5:17). His words counter any misconception that his teaching contradicts the Old Testament. Instead, he fulfills the Law in three primary ways: by perfectly obeying it, by embodying its prophetic promises, and by bringing its ultimate purpose to completion in his redemptive work. The Law was never meant to be an end in itself but to point to the righteousness found in Christ (Romans 10:4).
Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law doesn’t mean its irrelevance but rather its deeper significance in the life of his followers. As John Calvin noted, “Christ did not put an end to the teaching of the Law, but gave it completion so that we may draw from it what was imperfect in itself.” Our obedience is now shaped by Christ’s fulfillment, as we live by faith in him.
The Enduring Authority of God’s Word
“For truly, I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the Law until all is accomplished" (Matthew 5:18). Jesus affirms the authority and permanence of God’s Word. The smallest letter or stroke of Scripture remains intact until God’s purposes are fulfilled. This echoes Isaiah 40:8: “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God will stand forever.”
In a world that increasingly dismisses biblical authority, Jesus’ words remind us that God’s truth remains unshaken. The call to uphold Scripture isn’t about legalism but about aligning ourselves with God’s unchanging will, allowing his truth to shape our hearts and lives.
Righteousness That Surpasses the Pharisees
Jesus continues, “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” (Matthew 5:19). Faithfulness to God’s commands matters, not as a means of earning salvation but as a reflection of our transformed hearts. James 1:22 urges believers to “be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to the Law, yet Jesus warns that mere external obedience is insufficient: “For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). This is a radical statement - how can anyone exceed the righteousness of those who meticulously followed the Law?
Jesus is pointing beyond external rule-keeping to an inward transformation. True righteousness flows from a heart changed by God’s grace, not just outward compliance. The Pharisees focused on legalistic details while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). In contrast, the righteousness that enters God’s Kingdom is one that stems from a deep, personal relationship with Christ.
Key Principles
Christ’s coming doesn’t discard God’s Law but completes and deepens its meaning for believers (Matthew 5:17).
The Scriptures endure forever, guiding us to live in obedience and faithfulness (Matthew 5:18).
The Kingdom of heaven belongs to those transformed by God’s grace, not merely those who follow rules (Matthew 5:20).
Bible Study Questions
What does Jesus mean when he says he came to fulfill the Law? (Matthew 5:17)
How does Christ’s fulfillment of the Law affect our understanding of the Old Testament?
Why does Jesus emphasize that not even the smallest part of the Law will pass away? (Matthew 5:18)
How does Isaiah 40:8 reinforce Jesus’ statement about the permanence of God’s Word?
What does it mean to be called “least” or “great” in the Kingdom of heaven? (Matthew 5:19)
In what ways do people today “relax” God’s commandments, and how can we remain faithful?
Why is it significant that Jesus calls for a righteousness greater than that of the Pharisees? (Matthew 5:20)
How can we pursue a righteousness that is based on grace rather than legalism?
What are some examples of how Jesus demonstrated the true intent of the Law in his ministry?
How does our obedience to God’s Word impact our witness to others?
Questions for Discussion and Personal Reflection
How does understanding Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law shape your appreciation of the Old Testament?
Are there areas in your life where you struggle with external obedience versus true heart transformation?
How can you develop a greater love for God’s Word and a deeper commitment to living it out?
In what ways have you seen cultural pressures attempt to diminish the authority of Scripture?
What practical steps can you take to ensure that your righteousness is not just outward but rooted in a personal relationship with Christ?
How can you encourage others to uphold the truth of God’s Word without falling into legalism?
What role does faith in Christ play in surpassing the righteousness of the Pharisees?
How does the permanence of God’s Law provide comfort and assurance in your daily walk?
How can you balance grace and obedience in your Christian life?
What areas of your life do you need to surrender to God so that he can cultivate true righteousness in you?
Action Steps
Spend time studying how Jesus fulfills the Law and the Prophets, recognizing their relevance to your faith today.
Ask God to reveal any areas where you’re relying on external righteousness rather than a heart transformed by grace.
Choose one specific way this week to actively live out God’s commands in a way that points others to Christ.
Thank you for joining me today. My hope is that you were encouraged and blessed by reflecting on this passage. You can discover more devotionals, Bible studies, and other resources by clicking here: Walking Points. If you found this study helpful, please consider sharing it with others and encouraging them to subscribe as well.