Matthew 5:17-19
17 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.
18 For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.
19 Therefore anyone who sets aside one of the least of these commands and teaches others accordingly will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:17-19: Verse-by-Verse Analysis
Verse 17: Jesus clarifies that He did not come to abolish the Law or the Prophets but to fulfill them. This shows that Jesus’ purpose was not to do away with the teachings of the Old Testament but to bring them to completion.
Verse 18: Jesus emphasizes the enduring nature of the Law by stating that not even the smallest part of it will disappear until everything is accomplished. This highlights the importance of the Law and the Prophets in God’s plan.
Verse 19: Jesus warns against disregarding even the least of the commandments and teaching others to do the same. He emphasizes the importance of both practicing and teaching the commands, as those who do so will be considered great in the kingdom of heaven.
In these verses, Jesus emphasizes the continuity and significance of the Old Testament teachings, while also stressing the importance of obedience to God’s commands. It is clear that Jesus upholds the Law and expects His followers to do the same.