Matthew 5:17
BSB: 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.
The Gospel of Matthew, within the New Testament of the Bible, holds profound significance for Christians worldwide. Among its many verses, Matthew 5:17 stands as a cornerstone, embodying key principles of Christian faith and ethical conduct. This scripture, spoken by Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount, carries weighty implications for understanding the relationship between the Old and New Testaments, as well as the overarching mission of Christ. To unravel its depth and significance, it is imperative to delve into the historical context, linguistic nuances, and theological interpretations surrounding this verse.
Historical Context:
Matthew 5:17 is situated within the broader context of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, a pivotal moment in his ministry where he imparts profound teachings to his disciples and the crowds gathered around him. This sermon, spanning chapters 5 to 7 in the Gospel of Matthew, addresses various aspects of righteous living, ethical conduct, and the kingdom of God.
During the time of Jesus, Judaism was the predominant religious and cultural framework in Judea and Galilee. The Jewish people revered the Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, as sacred scripture, along with other writings and oral traditions. The Pharisees and scribes, influential religious authorities of the time, upheld strict adherence to the Mosaic law and traditions.
Linguistic Analysis:
To grasp the full meaning of Matthew 5:17, it is essential to examine the original Greek text and the specific words used by Jesus. The verse begins with the phrase “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets.” Here, the term “Law” (νόμος – nomos) refers to the Torah, encompassing the entirety of Mosaic legislation and Jewish religious law. The “Prophets” alludes to the prophetic writings of the Old Testament, emphasizing the continuity of divine revelation throughout Jewish history.
Jesus continues, stating, “I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.” The word “fulfill” (πληρόω – pleroo) carries rich theological significance, implying completion, accomplishment, or bringing to fruition. In this context, Jesus affirms that his mission is not to invalidate or nullify the law and the prophets but to bring them to their intended culmination or fulfillment.
Theological Interpretations:
Interpreting Matthew 5:17 has been the subject of extensive theological reflection and debate throughout Christian history. Several key interpretative frameworks have emerged, each shedding light on different aspects of its meaning and implications.
1. Fulfillment Theology: One predominant interpretation understands Jesus’ statement as affirming his role as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and promises. In this view, Jesus is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, bringing about the fulfillment of the law and the prophets through his life, death, and resurrection. Through his perfect obedience to the law and his sacrificial death, Jesus accomplishes what the law could not, reconciling humanity to God and inaugurating a new covenant.
2. Continuity and Discontinuity: Another perspective emphasizes both the continuity and discontinuity between the Old and New Testaments. While Jesus affirms the enduring validity and moral principles of the Mosaic law, he also introduces a new era characterized by grace, mercy, and spiritual transformation. In this interpretation, Jesus fulfills the law by providing a deeper understanding of its true intent and by offering himself as the ultimate atonement for sin.
3. Ethical and Moral Guidance: Matthew 5:17-20 serves as a foundational passage for understanding Christian ethics and moral conduct. Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount challenge his followers to surpass mere external adherence to the law and to embody a righteousness that surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees. This righteousness is characterized by attitudes of humility, mercy, purity of heart, and peacemaking, reflecting the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers.
Implications for Christian Doctrine:
The significance of Matthew 5:17 extends beyond its immediate context, influencing core doctrines of the Christian faith. It underscores the inseparable connection between the Old and New Testaments, affirming the continuity of God’s redemptive purposes throughout history. Moreover, it highlights Jesus’ unique role as the fulfillment of prophecy and the embodiment of God’s covenantal promises.
For Christians, Matthew 5:17 serves as a guiding principle for understanding the moral and ethical teachings of Jesus. It calls believers to a higher standard of righteousness, rooted in love for God and neighbor, and empowered by the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. While the specifics of Mosaic law may no longer bind Christians under the new covenant, the underlying principles of justice, mercy, and faithfulness remain eternally relevant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 5:17 encapsulates profound truths about the person and mission of Jesus Christ, the continuity of God’s redemptive plan, and the ethical framework for Christian living. By exploring its historical context, linguistic nuances, and theological implications, believers can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and depth of scripture, inspiring them to walk in the footsteps of the one who came not to abolish the law but to fulfill it.