The Disciple’s Convictions – Christ and the Law
Focus: Jesus’ fulfillment of the Law; surpassing Pharisaic righteousness
Why this section: A hinge that protects from legalism and sets the stage for heart-level obedience. For those accustomed to regulations, it clarifies the difference between rule-keeping and Spirit-empowered righteousness (c/o Herschel Hughes Jr and Paul Morris of CMF) footnotes from biblegateway.com
Matthew 5:17-20
17 “Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. CHRIST DID NOT WANT TO GET RID OF THE OLD TESTAMENT. HE AND THE NEW TESTAMENT FULFILLS IT. MESSIANIC CHRISTIANS TEND TO TRY TO FOLLOW BOTH.
18 For truly I say to you, until heaven and earth pass away, not [h]the smallest letter or stroke shall pass from the Law until all is accomplished. YOU CAN TRUST IN THE RELIABILITY OF SCRIPTURE (1)
19 Whoever then annuls one of the least of these commandments, and teaches [i]others to do the same, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever [j]keeps and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. IT'S IMPORTANT FOR US TO BE HUMBLE. THE LORD WILL LIFT US UP. JAMES 4: 10 "Humble yourselves in the presence of the Lord, and He will exalt you."
20 “For I say to you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven." THIS IS A STRONG STATEMENT RE: RIGHTEOUSNESS. THIS IS GETTING AT
Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
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Author Josh McDowell has written at length about the historical reliability of the New Testament scriptures. You can find one of his articles on the topic here: https://www.josh.org/scribes-faithfully-transmit-old-testament/