Matthew 5:17-19
Chapter 5
17
Jesus and the Law
Do not think that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets. I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.18
I tell you this: as long as heaven and earth last, not the smallest letter or dot in the law will change until everything is fulfilled.
19
So then, whoever breaks the least important of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be least in the kingdom of heaven. But whoever obeys them and teaches others to do the same will be great in the kingdom of heaven.
Commentaries
Jesus and the Law.
Jesus clarifies his view on the Law, the Torah. First, he discusses it in general, including all Scripture in the well-known phrase “the Law and the Prophets”; then, in six clearly defined contrasts, highlighted by Matthew’s famous antitheses: “You have heard that it was said… but I say to you.” Jesus speaks with authority that goes beyond the old legislation.
Jesus restores the commandments to their core and ultimate purpose: serving life, justice, love, and truth. He does not oppose the old Law with a new one but transforms it and brings it to fulfillment. At the heart is sacred respect for the person and a denunciation of anything that, even if disguised by legality, attacks their dignity.