New Testament
Matthew 5:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't think I came to abolish the law or the prophets. I didn't come to abolish them but to fulfill them.
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Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
What Matthew 5:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus clarifies His purpose regarding the Jewish law and the teachings of the prophets. He emphasizes that He did not come to eliminate or invalidate these sacred texts but rather to bring their true meaning to completion. The law and the prophets are foundational to understanding God's will, and Jesus' mission is to fulfill the promises and prophecies contained within them. This fulfillment includes living out the law perfectly and revealing its deeper spiritual significance. By doing so, He shows that the law is not obsolete but is instead fulfilled in Him, providing a new understanding of righteousness and relationship with God. This statement reassures His followers that the teachings of the Old Testament remain relevant and vital, as they point towards Him and His redemptive work. Jesus' role is to bridge the gap between the old covenant and the new, highlighting the continuity of God's plan throughout history.
How to apply Matthew 5:17 to your life
Understanding that Jesus fulfills the law encourages us to study the Old Testament with new eyes. We can appreciate how the teachings of Jesus deepen our understanding of God's intentions and how we can live in accordance with His will today.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 5:17 mean?
Matthew 5:17 means that Jesus did not come to abolish the Jewish law or the teachings of the prophets, but to fulfill them. This indicates that He aims to complete and deepen the understanding of these scriptures rather than invalidate them.
What is the significance of fulfilling the law in Matthew 5:17?
Fulfilling the law in Matthew 5:17 signifies that Jesus embodies the true purpose and meaning of the law, showing that it is still relevant. His life and teachings reveal the deeper spiritual significance of the law and how it points to God's plan.
How does Matthew 5:17 relate to the Old Testament?
Matthew 5:17 relates to the Old Testament by affirming that the law and the prophets are still important. Jesus emphasizes that His mission is to bring these teachings to their intended fulfillment, highlighting their ongoing relevance.
Why is the law important according to Matthew 5:17?
According to Matthew 5:17, the law is important because it lays the foundation for understanding God's will. Jesus' fulfillment of the law demonstrates its significance in revealing God's character and His plan for humanity.
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