How does Matthew 5:18 affirm the authority of Scripture in our lives? Setting the Scene Matthew 5:18: “Truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen, will disappear from the Law until everything is accomplished.” What Jesus Declares about Scripture • “Truly I tell you” – a solemn oath underscoring absolute certainty. • “Until heaven and earth pass away” – the longest conceivable span; Scripture outlasts creation itself. • “Not a single jot, not a stroke of a pen” – even the smallest Hebrew marks are preserved. • “Until everything is accomplished” – every prophecy, promise, and command will reach its fulfillment. Permanence and Reliability • Psalm 119:89 – “Your word, O LORD, stands firm in the heavens.” • Isaiah 40:8 – “The word of our God stands forever.” • 1 Peter 1:25 – “The word of the Lord endures forever.” Together with Matthew 5:18, these passages reveal Scripture’s immovable stability. Total Inspiration • 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed…” • John 10:35 – “Scripture cannot be broken.” Jesus’ reference to every jot and tittle echoes the Spirit-breathed precision of every word. Completeness and Fulfillment • Luke 24:44 – Jesus said that everything written “must be fulfilled.” • Revelation 22:18-19 – warnings against adding or subtracting words highlight a closed, complete canon. Matthew 5:18 anticipates the day when all Scripture meets its goal in Christ’s return and the new creation. Practical Authority in Daily Life Because every detail is preserved and purposeful: 1. Obedience is non-negotiable—no command is outdated (James 1:22). 2. Doctrine is secure—truth does not shift with culture (Ephesians 4:14). 3. Assurance is strengthened—promises cannot fail (Hebrews 10:23). 4. Moral boundaries remain firm—God’s standards do not erode (Psalm 119:9). 5. Hope is anchored—prophecies will be accomplished (2 Peter 1:19). Living Under Scripture’s Authority • Study it diligently (Acts 17:11). • Submit thoughts and decisions to its counsel (Psalm 119:105). • Teach it faithfully, without alteration (Titus 2:1). • Trust its promises and warnings equally (Romans 15:4). Jesus’ word in Matthew 5:18 settles the question: Scripture stands unaltered, unbreakable, and utterly authoritative for every aspect of life. |
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