Matthew 5:17-48. Jesus taught his disciples to have a different attitude toward the Law and the Prophets (that is, the Old Testament scriptures) (17). He particularly warned them not to follow the path established by the scribes and Pharisees (20). What was the sin of these religious experts that kept them from the promise of entering Christ’s coming kingdom? They reduced the teachings of scripture to certain bite-sized chunks:
- “you shall not murder” (21),
- “you shall not commit adultery” (22),
- “whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce” (31),
- “you shall not swear falsely” (33),
- “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth” (38),
- “you shall love your neighbor, and hate your enemy” (43).
They established these commands as the limits that the Law required, and so as long as someone did not go beyond those limits he was deemed safe. Jesus taught his disciples that this view of the scriptures is backward. Kingdom living is not a matter of establishing the limits to our sinfulness. It is a life that is constantly going beyond the limits of what is expected. It is…
- reconciling with anyone who you are angry with (21-26),
- tearing out your eye to prevent lust (27-30),
- staying faithful to your spouse (31-32),
- being true to your word so that an oath is not necessary (33-37),
- going the extra mile instead of retaliating evil (38-42),
- loving your enemies (43-47).
Kingdom living is being perfect because your heavenly Father is perfect (48). He has promised you sonship by his grace.
LORD, teach us to love like you love. Teach us to live in your limitless perfection.
Devotions 