Thoughts from the Heart - Matthew 5:17 NLT

Matthew 5:17 is a verse from the New Testament of the Bible that is often quoted and discussed. This verse states, "Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose." (Matthew 5:17 NLT)

When considering the intent and action behind Matthew 5:17, it is important to understand the context in which it was written. The verse was spoken by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, a collection of teachings that he gave to his followers on a mountain in Galilee.

The Law and the Prophets referred to in Matthew 5:17 refer to the Old Testament of the Bible. The Old Testament laws and regulations were seen as the standard for living a righteous and holy life by the Jews of the time. However, the laws were often misunderstood and misapplied, leading to a focus on outward obedience rather than inward righteousness.

Jesus’ message in Matthew 5:17 was that he had come not to abolish the Law and the Prophets, but to fulfill them. This meant that he was not doing away with the old laws, but was instead bringing a deeper understanding of their intent and purpose. He was emphasizing the importance of not just following the laws outwardly, but of having a heart change that leads to a change in behavior.

When considering the intent and action behind Matthew 5:17, it is important to understand that the verse is not just about following the laws of the Old Testament, but about living a life that is aligned with God's will. Jesus’ message was that the laws were not just a set of rules to follow, but that they were meant to bring people closer to God and to guide them in living a life that is pleasing to Him.

In order to fulfill the Law and the Prophets, Jesus taught that it is necessary to go beyond just outward obedience and to have a change in heart. This involves having a love for God and for others that motivates actions, rather than simply following the rules because they are required.

In conclusion, when considering the intent and action behind Matthew 5:17, it is important to understand that the verse is not just about following the laws of the Old Testament, but about living a life that is aligned with God's will. Jesus came to fulfill the Law and the Prophets by bringing a deeper understanding of their intent and purpose, emphasizing the importance of having a heart change that leads to a change in behavior.