Contemplative Bible Reading

Matthew 5:17-19 (New Living Translation)

17 “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. 18 I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. 19 So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven.

This is Jesus speaking during the Sermon on the Mount(ainside). Jesus came to accomplish the purpose of the Old Law—the bring us closer to God the Creator.

Jesus is talking to mostly Jews about the Old Jewish Law. Their ancestors got a big fat F in their attempt to abide by the Old Law. Jesus is telling the people of His day that the Old Law was not at fault. The Old Law showed the way to God.

Obey the old precepts. Teach them.

No, I am not advocating Temple sacrifices. I am advocating sacrificial living like Jesus showed.