Fulfilling the Law Through Christ

Fulfilling the Law Through Christ

Scripture: Matthew 5:17-20 (NIV)
"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. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished. Therefore, anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven."

Reflection:

Many people see rules and laws as restrictions. In fact, a lot of people see the Bible as a book only filled with laws and restrictions. But Jesus came to show us the heart behind God’s commands. In this passage, Jesus makes it clear that He did not come to erase the Law, but rather to fulfill it completely. Every law and prophecy in the Old Testament pointed to Him, and He embodied perfect righteousness on our behalf.

Jesus' fulfillment of the Law does not mean we should disregard it, but rather that we should see it through the lens of His grace and truth. The Pharisees were meticulous in following the Law externally, but Jesus calls us to a deeper, heart-level righteousness—one that is rooted in faith, love, and obedience to God.

Instead of constantly striving to keep all the rules and ways of God in our own might we are invited to look to Jesus. And as we come to know Him and be with Him we realize that behind the heart of God's commands is life. So of course Jesus is the fulfillment of the law because He is where life is found.

Application:

See Christ as the Fulfillment – Jesus is the perfect fulfillment of God’s plan. Instead of striving to earn righteousness through works, we can trust in His finished work on the cross.

Live in True Righteousness – Righteousness is not just about outward actions but about a transformed heart. Are we living to impress others, please others, play religion or are we truly seeking to follow Christ in sincerity?

Teach and Live the Word – Jesus encourages us to uphold and teach God's commands. Our lives should reflect His truth and love, serving as a testimony to others.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank You for fulfilling the Law and showing us the way to true righteousness. Help me to live not by mere external obedience but with a heart that truly seeks You. Teach me to follow Your commands in love and truth, and may my life reflect Your grace to those around me. Amen.

Love you guys,
Pastor Jeret