6th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Matthew 5:17-37 is a section of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches his disciples about the true meaning of the law and the commandments. This passage is rich in theological insights that shed light on the nature of God's kingdom and the ethical principles that guide the life of the believer. In this blog post, we will explore the main themes of this passage and their implications for Christian theology and practice.
First, let us examine the opening verses of this passage, where Jesus declares that he did not come to abolish the law but to fulfill it. This statement is crucial for understanding the relationship between the Old Testament and the New Testament. Jesus does not reject the law, but rather he embodies its fullness and reveals its true meaning. The law is not an end in itself but a pointer to the ultimate reality of God's love and justice. The law serves as a tutor that leads us to Christ, who is the fulfillment of all the promises and prophecies of the Old Testament.
Jesus then proceeds to illustrate the deeper meaning of the law by giving several examples. He first speaks about the commandment against murder, which he interprets as a prohibition against anger and contempt. Jesus teaches that even the slightest hint of hostility toward another person violates the commandment of love and exposes us to judgment. He then discusses the commandment against adultery, which he expands to include lustful thoughts and desires. Jesus emphasizes the importance of purity of heart and the need to guard against any temptation that leads us astray from the path of righteousness.
In the next section, Jesus addresses the issue of divorce and remarriage. He acknowledges that divorce is a reality in a fallen world, but he reminds us that God's original plan for marriage was one man and one woman united in a lifelong covenant of love. Jesus condemns the practice of divorce for trivial reasons and warns that any remarriage after a divorce amounts to adultery. Jesus' teaching on marriage and divorce affirms the sacredness of human sexuality and the importance of fidelity in all relationships.
Finally, Jesus speaks about the power of words and the need to speak truthfully and graciously. He condemns the use of oaths and encourages his followers to let their yes be yes and their no be no. Jesus teaches that our speech reveals the state of our hearts and that we will be held accountable for every word we speak.
What is the theological significance of this passage? First, it highlights the centrality of love and justice in the kingdom of God. The law is not a legalistic code but a revelation of God's character and his desire for human flourishing. Second, it reveals the radical nature of the gospel and the transformative power of Christ's grace. The law exposes our sin and our need for a Savior, who can cleanse us from all unrighteousness and enable us to live a life of holiness and love. Third, it underscores the importance of community and relationships in the Christian life. The commandments are not just individualistic rules but communal practices that shape our identity and witness in the world.
In conclusion, Matthew 5:17-37 is a rich and challenging passage that invites us to reflect on the nature of God's kingdom and the ethical principles that guide the life of the believer. As we seek to live according to the commandments of Christ, may we be transformed by his grace and empowered by his Spirit to love God and our neighbor with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
