Matthew Bible Study: Matthew 5:17-20

This Wednesday, June 20, we will be discussing Matthew 5:17-20. You have had two weeks to study and prepare for this Wednesday so I expect good observations and thoughts! I hope you have not "slacked off," but rather you have taken "full advantage" of this opportunity to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ!

Having already covered a Christian's character (Matthew 5:1-12), and a Christian's influence (Matthew 5:13-16), we now move on to Christ as the fulfillment of the Old Testament (Matthew 5:17-20).

Here are some initial thoughts and observations to help you prepare for Wednesday.

1. Keep in mind "law" and "prophets" refer to the entire Old Testament.

2. Notice the progression in the text from third person (5:1-10), second person (5:11-16), to first person (5:17ff). What is the significance of this progression?

3. Notice the antithesis between "abolish" and "fulfill." Take time now to consider how Christ "fulfills" the Old Testament?

4. What connection is there between Matthew 3:15 and Matthew 5:17?

5. How do you think the original hearers felt upon hearing Christ statement of "unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven?"

6. What is the relation between Christ's fulfilling of the Old Testament and Kingdom of Heaven?

Andrew Manwarren