*Matthew 5:17-30
Jesus teaches a higher standard of righteousness than the law of Moses, focusing on the law, anger and adultery.
- Fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets
- Jesus asserts that He came not to abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them.
- He emphasizes the importance of righteousness, stating that unless one’s righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, they will not enter the kingdom of heaven.
- This implies a deeper understanding of the law beyond mere observance.
- Anger and Reconciliation
- Jesus addresses the commandment against murder, stating that being angry with a brother or sister without cause is subject to judgment.
- He emphasizes the urgency of reconciliation, suggesting that one should reconcile with their adversary before presenting an offering at the altar.
- Lust and Adultery
- Jesus expands on the commandment against adultery, stating that looking at someone with lustful intent is akin to committing adultery in one’s heart.
- He advocates drastic measures to avoid temptation, suggesting that it would be better to lose a body part that causes sin than to allow the whole body to be cast into hell.
Matthew 5:17-30 teaches us that following God is about more than just following rules—it’s about having the right heart. Jesus explains that obeying God isn’t just about avoiding bad actions like murder or adultery, but also about controlling our thoughts, emotions, and attitudes. He calls us to let go of anger, treat others with respect, and keep our hearts pure. This reminds us that true obedience comes from loving God and others, not just trying to look good on the outside.
Matthew 5:17-30 (WEB)
5:17 “Don’t think that I came to destroy the law or the prophets. I didn’t come to destroy, but to fulfill. 18 For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the law, until all things are accomplished. 19 Therefore, whoever shall break one of these least commandments and teach others to do so, shall be called least in the Kingdom of Heaven; but whoever shall do and teach them shall be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. 20 For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, there is no way you will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.21 “You have heard that it was said to the ancient ones, ‘You shall not murder;’ and ‘Whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ 22 But I tell you that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment. Whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ will be in danger of the council. Whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of Gehenna.23 “If therefore you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, 24 leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Agree with your adversary quickly while you are with him on the way; lest perhaps the prosecutor deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. 26 Most certainly I tell you, you shall by no means get out of there until you have paid the last penny.27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery;’ 28 but I tell you that everyone who gazes at a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. 29 If your right eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out and throw it away from you. For it is more profitable for you that one of your members should perish than for your whole body to be cast into Gehenna. 30 If your right hand causes you to stumble, cut it off, and throw it away from you. For it is more profitable for you that one of your members should perish, than for your whole body to be cast into Gehenna.