Through the Bible: Matthew 5–7
“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
— Matthew 5:43–44
We sometimes talk as though the Old Testament was the story of God’s wrath and the New Testament is the story of His love, as if Jesus came to lower the bar.
He didn’t.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus raises it so high that no one can reach it without grace.
The difference is that He moves the standard from what can be measured to what can only be motivated. The Old Covenant focused on what people could see — actions, rituals, external obedience. But in the new covenant, Jesus turns the spotlight on what people can’t see — our thoughts, motives, and heart posture.
From Rules to Relationship
Six times in Matthew 5, Jesus says, “You have heard that it was said… but I say to you.” Each statement digs deeper than the letter of the law to reveal the spirit of love behind it.
- “You’ve heard not to murder.” Love says, Deal with your anger.
- “You’ve heard not to commit adultery.” Love says, Honor others in your heart and with your eyes
- “You’ve heard to love your neighbor.” Love says, Include your enemy.
Jesus isn’t abolishing the law (see verse 17); He’s fulfilling it — filling it full of its true intent. The question is no longer, What am I required to do? but What does love require of me?
The Question That Changes Everything
Andy Stanley calls this “the most important question a Jesus-follower can ask.” When you don’t know what to do, ask what love would do. Because love is what God does.
This changes everything:
- When someone wounds me, love requires forgiveness.
- When someone disagrees with me, love requires humility.
- When someone needs something I could give, love requires generosity.
It’s not about how far I can go before I cross the line. It’s about how far I can go to show grace.
Perfect Love, Perfectly Shown
Jesus ends this section with one of the hardest commands in Scripture:
“Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48)
The Greek word teleios means mature, complete, whole. Jesus isn’t calling us to flawlessness, but to fullness — a love that reflects the Father’s own heart.
So the New Testament doesn’t lower the standard; it lifts it beyond calculation. You can’t measure love on a scale or check it off a list. The only way to fulfill it is to be filled by the One who is love.
Prayer for the Day
Father, thank You that Your love fulfills what the law required. Teach me to ask not “What’s allowed?” but “What does love require?” Transform my heart so my obedience flows from affection, not obligation. Help me love even when it’s costly, forgive even when it’s undeserved, and reflect Your heart in everything I do. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Other posts for Day 283
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