Matthew·Chapter 5

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on some of the values or teachings you’ve learned in your life—maybe from family, friends, or even from your own experiences. Instead of seeing them as just rules, think about what they truly mean and how they can guide you to live a more fulfilled life. Perhaps you can pick one teaching and find a way to express it in a new, loving action—like being extra kind to someone or standing up for what’s right. Let those teachings come alive in your actions!

Chapter Context

Leading up to this moment, Jesus has just begun His teaching ministry, and people are buzzing with excitement and curiosity. They’re trying to figure out who He is and what He stands for. When He says He’s not here to abolish the Law or the Prophets, it’s a pivotal moment—He’s clarifying misconceptions and setting the stage for the radical love and purpose He’s about to share throughout His teachings. This statement acts like a bridge, connecting what has been taught with what He’s about to reveal. It’s the moment where everything shifts in understanding. People start to realize that the old ways were not being discarded but transformed.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• think - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• come - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• abolish - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• law - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• or - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• prophets - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• come - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

How can understanding that Jesus came to fulfill the old teachings instead of getting rid of them change the way you view the rules or values you’ve learned in your own life?

Related Verses

• Isaiah 53:5 - Written 700 years before this verse, it talks about a future figure who would bear the pain of others, showing how Jesus fulfills this idea of suffering for love.
• Jeremiah 31:33 - Written 600 years before, this verse speaks of a time when people would know God personally, which Jesus embodies through His teachings.
• Romans 3:31 - Paul explains that faith doesn’t cancel out the laws but upholds them, showing how Jesus’ life gives them new meaning.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 5:17. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Purpose

To show us who Jesus is, how to have a relationship with God, and how to live as followers of Christ in the world today.

Significance

The New Testament is where we meet Jesus personally and learn how His love changes everything! It shows us the fulfillment of God's promises and how to live in relationship with Him.