Proposition: We must not become so legalistic that our only concern keeping a set of rules, because true relationships are much deeper that rule keeping.

Introduction: Jesus did not come to change the Law

A.   Did not come to destroy the Law but fulfill it

• The System of the Law requires perfect obedience in order to have no liability of punishment.
• Jesus is not changing the Law ‘into’ grace, but Jesus is coming to complete the plan of grace that God promised to Abraham by  fulfilling what  had been spoken of Jesus in the Old Testament (Law and Prophets)

B.   Our righteousness must surpass legalism

• Usually legalists only recognize rules they are able to keep, and rules that they break are ignored
• Jesus puts the Law into its proper prospective.

I. Correct view or murder

• Not just the physical act of murder is covered by the sixth commandment
• Murder in the heart/mind
• Murder with the mouth
• Seek reconciliation as early as possible in order to head off separation

II. Correct view of adultery and divorce

• Again the physical act is not the only aspect of breaking this commandment. Adultery with the eyes and in the heart
• Be willing to “cut off” that witch make you sin.
• Divorce will facilitate adultery

III. Correct view on oaths

• Do not swear, but let your word be your bond.
• You have nothing to give as collateral.

Conclusion: God swore by himself

• When God promised to Abraham, he swore by himself.