How to Handle the Law Matthew 5:17-20

We live in a Republic governed by the rule of law We have witnessed a grave departure from the principles that established this nation Yet we are best served when we live by the established laws… We should, of all people, have an appreciation for the emphasis in Scripture on the place and function of the law in life

I. Understand the Relationship of the Law to the King “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill.” (Matthew 5:17, NKJV)

A. The authoritative King validates the authority of the law We must be prepared to deal with matters of authority We must understand the relation of Jesus to the law “For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled.” (Matthew 5:18, NKJV)

B. The authoritative King validates the durability of the law This verse includes an indicator of important truth -assuredly I say to you The terminology used here is also clear and specific

II. Understand the Relationship of the Subjects to the Kingdom “Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; ….” (Matthew 5:19a, NKJV)

A. Violation of the law will negatively affect your status in the kingdom We are called to have a high view of Scripture We are warned of the implications of violating the Word “…but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:19b, NKJV)

B. Promotion of the law will positively affect your status in the kingdom There is a direct correlation between obeying the Word and greatness in the Kingdom There is a direct correlation between teaching obedience to the the Word and greatness in the Kingdom

III. Understand the Relationship of the Law to Righteousness “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:20, NKJV)

A. Conformity to the law is inadequate for entering the Kingdom External conformity to the law does not redeem people External conformity to the law does not equal righteousness

B. Traditional righteousness is inadequate for entering the Kingdom We should be wary of men’s definitions of righteousness We should be intent on God’s definition of righteousness Rom 10:3-4 “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and seeking to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted to the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” (NKJV)