Matthew 5:17

“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.”

Historical Context:In this verse, Jesus is delivering the Sermon on the Mount, which is found in Matthew 5-7. This sermon contains essential teachings about the kingdom of God and the righteousness expected from His followers. In verse 17, Jesus addresses the relationship between Himself and the law (referring to the Mosaic Law) and the prophets (referring to the prophetic writings of the Old Testament).

Jesus Affirms the Importance of the Law:Jesus begins by saying, “Think not that I am come to destroy the law.” This statement addresses the common misconception that Jesus came to abolish the law of Moses. However, Jesus clarifies that He did not come to destroy the law but to fulfill it.

Jesus as the Fulfillment of the Law:Jesus states, “I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill.” Here, “fulfill” means to complete or bring to its intended purpose. Jesus came to fulfill the law and the prophetic writings by perfectly embodying their requirements and fulfilling the Messianic prophecies. In His life, teachings, death, and resurrection, Jesus perfectly fulfilled the righteous demands of the law on behalf of humanity.

The Continuity of the Old Testament:Jesus’ statement highlights the continuity between the Old Testament (the law and the prophets) and His ministry. He did not come to set aside the law but to bring it to its intended fulfillment. The law and the prophets pointed forward to the coming of the Messiah, and Jesus fulfills these expectations.

The Importance of the Law:Although Jesus fulfills the law, He does not dismiss its significance. In the subsequent verses (Matthew 5:18-19), Jesus emphasizes the enduring nature of the law, stating that not even the smallest part of it will pass away until all is accomplished. He urges His followers to uphold and teach the commandments, affirming the importance of obedience to God’s law.

A Call to Righteousness:Jesus’ fulfillment of the law and the prophets does not negate the moral and ethical principles contained within them. Instead, Jesus sets a higher standard of righteousness for His disciples, as revealed in the rest of the Sermon on the Mount. He expands on various laws, emphasizing the importance of inward righteousness, sincere devotion to God, and love for others.