This lesson examines an interpretation of the scriptures whereby the teachings of Jesus are regarded as exposition of the Law and the prophets rather than of the gospel. The idea is that Jesus preached a true interpretation of the law of Moses to show the Jews how to keep the law from the heart rather than legalistically and traditionally as they were doing. In this lesson we question whether this is a correct view of Christ's earthly ministry.
Did Jesus Preach the Law of Moses?
1 Jesus Critical of the Lawyers
It is correct that Jesus criticised the scribes and
teachers for their handling of the law. For example...
They commanded things the law did not command, adding their own traditions (Mrk 7:1-23)
They practised the law to be seen and applauded by men (Matt 6:5-18).
They were ignorant of the Scriptures (Mtt 22:23-33)
They neglected the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy and faith (Mtt 23:23-24).
The whole of Matthew 23 is a sermon condemning the scribes and Pharisees who sat in Moses's seat.
2 Encouragement to Keep the Law
It is correct that Jesus encouraged people to keep the law. For example...
He made it clear that the law was still in force (Mtt 5:17-20).
He actually commanded people to keep the law (Lke 17:12-14,Mrk 10:17-19,Jhn 8:3-7).
He observed the law himself (Gal 4:4,Psa 40:7-9,Heb 10:7).
3 Expounding the Law
It is correct that Jesus expounded the law of Moses. For example...
He stated the basis of the law (Mtt 22:34-40).
He interpreted the prophets (Mrk 12:35-37,Mrk 13:14,Lke 24:44).
He argued about interpretations of the law (Mtt 12:1-8).
He showed how his own teachings could be applied by those who kept the law (Mtt 5:21-24,Lke 18:9-14).
4 Preaching the Gospel
It is incorrect that he confined himself to the law of Moses or that preaching the law was the thrust of his ministry or his over-all purpose...
Matthew says Jesus preached the gospel (Matt 4:23).
Jesus was annointed to preach the gospel . (Lke 4:16-21).
Jesus was the first gospel preacher (Luke 16:16Heb 2:3).
The above discussion continues