The Jewish religious leaders distrusted Jesus, believing that he broke the Law and blasphemed God. But Jesus declared that he had come not to abolish the Law but to fulfill it and that the Law stands forever. In fact, he lived it perfectly and revealed its fullest intent. He fulfilled the prophecies in the Law that foretold the Messianic works—his death and resurrection—and met the demands and penalties of the Law on behalf of sinners.

Then Jesus challenges us to have a righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees. He wants us to pursue the heart of the Law and not outward show. He intensifies the commandments by applying them to the heart. Anger, contempt, and hatred are the roots of murder; therefore, we are to seek reconciliation quickly and make things right with others. Lust is the seed of adultery—a sin of the heart. We should cut it off by changing our habits and thoughts. Adultery breaks the marriage covenant; therefore, we are called to faithfulness and to honor a lifelong marriage commitment.

At first, Jesus seems to raise the bar so high that Law-keeping becomes impossible. But this shows us our need for Christ’s sanctifying work within us as we live out the lifestyle of God’s kingdom.
Application: Lord, transform my heart to keep your words and to understand your intention and purpose.
One Word: Fulfill the Law