Understanding God’s Law: A Journey to True Righteousness

As Thanksgiving approaches, many of us reflect on gratitude, but a deeper examination into our relationship with God’s law often leads to rich spiritual insight. The sermon at Knox Church draws us into the heart of the matter through Jesus’ teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, particularly Matthew 5:17-20. It challenges us to consider what true righteousness means and invites us to internalize it deeply within ourselves.

In this passage, Jesus makes a profound statement about the law: “Don’t think that I am come to abolish the law or the prophets: I am not come to abolish, but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17). This declaration is pivotal because it emphasizes that the law is not merely a set of constraints but a pathway to flourishing. The speaker reminds us that God’s laws were never meant to stifle our lives; instead, they are a gift meant for our good. Psalm 19 beautifully articulates this sentiment: “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7).

Yet, a significant challenge arises in our modern context where the principles of God’s law often sit superficially in our lives, obeyed reluctantly or only when we feel observed. True righteousness, Jesus shares, requires a depth far beyond mere surface compliance. He prompts us to let the commands of God permeate our very being, transforming our motivations. This internalization is crucial, as it can take time and intention, much like how cities learn to adapt and grow through their own rules and regulations.

The contrast between Jesus’ understanding of the law and that of the religious leaders of His time serves as a powerful reminder. These leaders were experts in the law but often missed its heart. Jesus declares, “For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). He is calling us to a radical commitment that goes beyond legalism, urging us to embrace the law as an invitation to love deeply and authentically.

Furthermore, the speaker stresses that the essence of God’s law is love. As Paul writes in Romans 13:10, “Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.” When we allow love to guide our hearts, we find that obeying God’s commandments comes naturally, not as a burden but as a delightful expression of our faith.

In practical terms, we are encouraged to reflect on how we embody love in our daily interactions. The speaker offers a poignant example from recent times: during the pandemic, a friend encountered a situation where love could have fostered connection rather than division regarding health guidelines. This serves as a reminder that love, rather than mere adherence to rules, should govern our actions and relationships.

As we ponder these teachings, let us take time for reflection and prayer. Ask God to reveal areas of your life where the law may need to be internalized more profoundly, and consider how love can manifest in your daily actions. How might you extend grace and understanding to those around you, obeying God’s commands through love?

If you’re looking for a community to explore these themes further, we warmly invite you to come worship with us at Knox Evangelical Church, located in Old Strathcona just north of Whyte Avenue in Edmonton. You can also stay connected with the “Knox Event Calendar” for up-to-date event news, offering opportunities for fellowship and growth as we seek to understand and live out God’s beautiful law together.