Matthew 5:17-20

Christ came to fulfill the Law, and with His death He satisfied the wrath of God for all who believe. What a blessing it is to us that He has already paid the penalty for our sins so that we might enjoy a right relationship to the Father. Verse 17 is fairly easy to understand and comprehend but it is followed by some strange thoughts that need further investigation. What does God mean that whoever breaks these commandments will be least in the kingdom of heaven. I did not know there would be hierarchy of perfection in heaven. The outcomes of disobedience for those who believe seems to be an area of Scripture that is not clear.

What is clear however, is the command to be righteous and love righteousness. And that seems to be the theme of the whole sermon. It is a connection to the Beattitude, Blessed are those who thirst and hunger for righteousness, for they will be filled. We do not gain access to God through our righteousness because we would not measure up, but our hearts, once we find Christ, should love righteousness. If we do not love righteousness, then we should reflect on what grace and salvation really are, because maybe we do not realize the fullness of our salvation.