Matthew 5:17-20

In the mind of the Pharisees (and many other observers), they were the great law-abiders whereas Jesus played fast and loose with the law (e.g. fraternizing with moral degenerates, violating the Sabbath). Beginning here and continuing throughout chapter 5, Jesus demonstrates that the very opposite is true. The Pharisees cared only about a superficial external obedience whereas Jesus calls for his followers to obey on a much deeper level. Christ came, as he said, not to abolish the law and the prophets, but to fulfill. In fact, Jesus will go on to teach that the truest and deepest meaning of the Old Testament is to point to himself. As such, Jesus fervently upholds the ongoing authority of God’s law for all who follow him. 

For Personal Reflection: Are there parts of God’s law that you tend to obey begrudgingly and externally without a lot of heart? Where do you find within yourself a ‘hunger and thirst’ for righteousness of heart and mind as well as behaviour?