Read: Matthew 5:13-20
I have not come to abolish [the Law and the Prophets] but to fulfill them. (v. 17 NIV)
I’ve been told it’s a sin to get a tattoo (Lev. 19:28). Yet I live in Colorado, which has more tattoos per capita than any other state. Then I’m commanded to stand in the presence of the aged (v. 32) and treat the foreigner like the native-born (v. 34). I don’t see either of those obeyed much. What are believers to do with the Law today?
Jesus said he didn’t come to abolish it. But neither does he preserve it unchanged. He speaks of fulfillment—of bringing to completion the full meaning of something. We no longer offer animal sacrifices for the forgiveness of our sins, but murder is still wrong. Some people say we still obey the moral law but not the civil or ceremonial law. That can help at times, but in what categories do tattoos, standing in the presence of the elderly, and relating to foreigners fit, and are we being consistent?
These same verses suggest principles behind the laws. Tattoos were pagan rituals like cutting oneself for the dead. Standing was a cultural form of respect. Equal treatment for foreigners contrasted with the Israelites’ mistreatment as slaves. We must always look for the principle behind a law and find an appropriate equivalent in today’s world. It might not involve a literal tattoo, but it might be to change our minds on certain immigration issues. Where does Jesus want our priorities to lie?
As you pray, ask God to show you legitimate ways to apply all of the Old Testament laws.
Craig L. Blomberg is the Distinguished Professor Emeritus of New Testament at Denver Seminary. He has written or edited more than 30 books, including a recently revised and expanded commentary on Matthew. He teaches regularly in churches, including his home church of Centennial Covenant in Littleton, CO. He and his wife Fran have two daughters and three grandchildren.
