[Scripture Reading: Matthew 5:17-20]

Introduction

A. Compared to the other gospels, none places greater emphasis on the Old Testament Scriptures than does Matthew.

B. When Jesus taught ideas that seemed radical to the Jews, some accused Him of trying to destroy what was sacred (Matthew 26:61).

C. Matthew helps us to see that, far from trying to abolish God’s Word, Jesus fulfilled it in every aspect of His life.

Discussion

I. Jesus fulfilled Scripture in His mortal existence.

A. He was heralded by God’s messenger (Matthew 3:3,11-12; 11:10).

B. He was born of a virgin (Matthew 1:22-23; cf. Isaiah 7:14).

C. He fulfilled Scripture in every place He ever lived (Matthew 2:5-6,15,23; 4:14-16).

II. Jesus fulfilled Scripture in His teaching.

A. He didn’t make Himself known immediately (Matthew 8:4; 9:30; 12:16-21; cf. Isaiah 42:1-4).

B. He spoke in parables (Matthew 13:34-35; cf. Psalm 78:2-3).

C. He came with compassion for the sick (Matthew 8:16-17).

D. He brought controversy and division (Matthew 10:34-36).

III. Jesus fulfilled Scripture in His death.

A. He entered Jerusalem in a humble fashion (Matthew 21:4-5).

B. He was abandoned by His disciples (Matthew 26:31; cf. Zechariah 13:7).

C. He was betrayed by a friend for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 27:9-10; cf. Zechariah 11:12-13).

Conclusion

Matthew leaves us with no doubt that Jesus is indeed “the Christ, the Son of the living God,” and he gives us ample evidence to share with a world that is still skeptical of Him.