Matthew 5:17-20 (The Sermon on the Mount, Part III)

In this section of the sermon, Christ talks about the Law (the Old Testament). He informs us that he did not come to get rid of the law, but to fulfill them. (v17) The Law and Christ are inseparable! Christ has come to do what we cannot on our own, fulfill God's commandments for us. Not only the "big ten" that we know today, but also Jewish ceremonial law and observances. He did not just follow the rules in an external way, but in a deep understanding and total commitment. He also knows the temptation (see the previous post on the Temptation of Jesus) but he was able to live a perfect life for us. His perfection has been given to us by his sacrifice! Since we cannot, on our own, observe God's Law... we must put our faith in Jesus' perfection and sacrifice as an atonement. The Law leads us to Christ. It's not something that if we work hard enough, we will "earn" God's favor, for who can possibly do enough good to cancel out even the "smallest" sin. Who would honestly have enough confidence in their own behavior to be confident of God's favor. That is why my confidence is in the Lord.

Christ does warn us to heed the Law in verse 18, that it will never go away until the end of time when all has been accomplished. He also issues a warning to those who would lead other astray, teaching falsehood would find themselves the least in Heaven. (v19) He also promises those that teach the truth and proclaim it will be called great in the same verse.

I'd like to point out that if a "christian" is out trying to "win souls for God" to be great in Heaven, should read this verse and take it to heart. Preaching the truth to others is something God does through you, not you doing it yourself. I cannot claim any truth to come from me, but from my Father in heaven through me. Watch out if you think you're the one doing the work and should be called "great" for it. A very dangerous thought!

Verse 20 might lead some to think that being a Christian and "getting to Heaven" is about being perfect. I know I'm far from it... that is why I look to Christ for my righteousness. It is only through Christ that we can have "righteousness [that] surpasses that of the Pharisees"

Lean on Christ for your perfection and trust completely in him!