Matthew 5:18
Verse
Context
The Fulfillment of the Law
17Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.18For I tell you truly, 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.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For verily I say unto you--Here, for the first time, does that august expression occur in our Lord's recorded teaching, with which we have grown so familiar as hardly to reflect on its full import. It is the expression manifestly, of supreme legislative authority; and as the subject in connection with which it is uttered is the Moral Law, no higher claim to an authority strictly divine could be advanced. For when we observe how jealously Jehovah asserts it as His exclusive prerogative to give law to men (Lev 18:1-5; Lev 19:37; Lev 26:1-4, Lev 26:13-16, &c.), such language as this of our Lord will appear totally unsuitable, and indeed abhorrent, from any creature lips. When the Baptist's words--"I say unto you" (Mat 3:9) --are compared with those of his Master here, the difference of the two cases will be at once apparent. Till heaven and earth pass--Though even the Old Testament announces the ultimate "perdition of the heavens and the earth," in contrast with the immutability of Jehovah (Psa 102:24-27), the prevalent representation of the heavens and the earth in Scripture, when employed as a popular figure, is that of their stability (Psa 119:89-91; Ecc 1:4; Jer 33:25-26). It is the enduring stability, then, of the great truths and principles, moral and spiritual, of the Old Testament revelation which our Lord thus expresses. one jot--the smallest of the Hebrew letters. one tittle--one of those little strokes by which alone some of the Hebrew letters are distinguished from others like them. shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled--The meaning is that "not so much as the smallest loss of authority or vitality shall ever come over the law." The expression, "till all be fulfilled," is much the same in meaning as "it shall be had in undiminished and enduring honor, from its greatest to its least requirements." Again, this general way of viewing our Lord's words here seems far preferable to that doctrinal understanding of them which would require us to determine the different kinds of "fulfilment" which the moral and the ceremonial parts of it were to have.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For verily I say unto you,.... Or "I Amen say unto you", which is one of the names of Christ; see Rev 3:14 or the word "Amen" is only used by Christ as an asseveration of what he was about to say; and which, for greater confirmation, is usually doubled in the Evangelist John, "Amen, Amen", or "verily, verily". The word is used by the Jews (w) for an oath; they swore by it; and it is a rule with them, that whoever answers "Amen" after an oath, it is all one as if he had pronounced the oath itself. The thing so strongly affirmed in this solemn manner is, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. The "or jot", in the Greek language, answers to "jod" in the Hebrew, the least of all the letters in the alphabet; hence a little city is called by this name, and this reason is given for it, (x) , "because that jod is the least among letters". We read also of Rabbi Jod (y), perhaps so called because , he was little, as the author of Juchasin observes (z). This shows in what language the law was written; not in the Samaritan language, for the jod in that is a large letter, but in the Hebrew, in which it is very small; and particularly is written in a very diminutive character, in Deu 32:18 "by one tittle" some think is meant one of those ducts, dashes, or corners of letters, which distinguish one letter from another, that are much alike; others have thought that one of the pricks or vowel points is intended; others, one of those little strokes in the tops of letters, which the Jews call (a) "crowns" and "spikes", is here meant, in which they imagined great mysteries were contained; and there were some persons among them, who made it their business to search into the meaning of every letter, and of everyone of these little horns, or pricks, that were upon the top of them. So says R. Meir (b), "in the time of the prophets there were such who very diligently searched every letter in the law, and explained every letter by itself; and do not wonder at this that they should expound every letter by itself, for they commented , upon everyone of the tops of each letter.'' Such an expounder was Akiba ben Joseph (c). To which custom Christ is here supposed to have respect: however, certain it is that he speaks very much in the language, and agreeably to the mind of the Jewish doctors; and some things in their writings will serve to illustrate this passage, "If, (say they (d),) all the nations of the world were gathered together, "to root one word out of the law", they could not do it; which you may learn from Solomon, who sought to root "one letter out of the law", the letter "jod", in Deu 17:16 but the holy blessed God said, Solomon shall cease, and an hundred such as he (in the Talmud (e) it is a thousand such as he) , "but, jod shall not cease from thee (the law) for ever".'' And elsewhere the same expression is used (f), and it is added, "ljbm ynya Kmm huwqw, "but a tittle from thee shall not perish."'' The design of Christ, in conformity to the language of the Jews, is to declare, that no part of the law, not one of the least commandments in it, as he explains himself in the next verse, should be unaccomplished; but all should be fulfilled before "heaven and earth pass" away, as they will, with a great noise and fervent heat, as to their present form and condition; or sooner shall they pass away, than the least part of the law shall: which expresses the perpetuity of the law, and the impossibility of its passing away, and the superior excellency of it to the heavens and the earth. It is a saying of one of the Jewish doctors (g), that "the whole world is not equal even to one word out of the law,'' in which it is said, there is not one letter deficient or superfluous. (w) T. Hieros. Kiddushin, fol. 60. 4. Misn. Bava Kama, c. 9. sect. 7, 8. T. Bab. Shebuot, fol. 36. 1. Debarim Rabba, fol. 242. 2. Maimon Hilch. Shebuot, c. 2. sect. 1. (x) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 21. 2. & Gloss. in ib. (y) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 22. 2. (z) Fol. 93. 2. (a) T. Bab. Menachot, fol. 29. 2. (b) In Semitis fidei, fol. 104. 4. & 105. 1. apud Capell. in loc. (c) T. Bab. Menachot, fol. 29. 2. (d) Vajikra Rabba, fol. 160. 3. Shirhashirim Rabba, fol 20. 2. (e) T. Hieros. Sanhedrim, fol. 20. 3. (f) Shemot Rabba, fol. 96. 1. (g) T. Hieros. Peah, fol. 15. 4.
Matthew 5:18
The Fulfillment of the Law
17Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets. I have not come to abolish them, but to fulfill them.18For I tell you truly, 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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Authority and the Power of God's Word - Part 1
By Derek Prince4.5K26:06GEN 3:1PSA 12:6MAT 4:4MAT 5:18MAT 22:31JHN 10:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:13EPH 6:172TI 3:16This sermon emphasizes the authority of the Bible, highlighting that all Scripture is inspired by God through the Holy Spirit, making it profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. It stresses the importance of consulting the author, the Holy Spirit, for interpreting Scripture and addresses the fallibility of human authors by showcasing how the Word of God is purified by the Holy Spirit. Jesus' attitude towards the Bible is examined, showcasing His reliance on Scripture to combat temptation and His acknowledgment of the written Word's absolute authority. The sermon also delves into how Jesus' life fulfilled Scripture and the authority behind the New Testament, which is the Holy Spirit guiding the apostles into all truth.
(Guidelines) Proof That the Bible Is the Word of God
By J. Vernon McGee3.2K00:37Evidence of FaithAuthority of ScripturePSA 119:105ISA 40:8MAT 5:18JHN 17:17ROM 15:41TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:20REV 22:18J. Vernon McGee addresses the question of how we can be certain that the Bible is the Word of God, emphasizing the importance of both internal evidence and scriptural examination. He acknowledges the validity of the question and aims to provide a comprehensive answer through various proofs found within the Scriptures. McGee encourages believers to explore the Bible's consistency, prophetic accuracy, and transformative power as key indicators of its divine origin.
(Guidelines) Inspiration Ii
By J. Vernon McGee3.1K01:43Biblical InspirationAuthority of ScripturePSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 5:18JHN 10:35ROM 15:41TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:21J. Vernon McGee emphasizes the concept of verbal plenary inspiration, asserting that every word of the Scriptures is divinely inspired and authoritative. He references early Church Fathers like Irenaeus and Augustine to support the belief that the Scriptures are perfect and cannot err. McGee encourages believers to recognize the Bible as the voice of God, which speaks directly to our hearts and lives. He also indicates the importance of understanding illumination and interpretation in relation to Scripture, aiming to clarify these concepts further in his sermon.
God's Dwelling Place
By George Warnock2.3K1:16:58Dwelling PlaceMAT 5:18JHN 12:24JHN 14:26ROM 7:61CO 2:9GAL 3:24HEB 8:13In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking the Lord earnestly and experiencing His visitation. The speaker shares a personal testimony of going through a difficult time and seeking the Lord's guidance. During this time, the speaker reflects on the verse about the kernel of wheat falling to the ground and dying to produce fruit. The speaker desires to become like that kernel of wheat and produce fruit for the Lord. The sermon also encourages believers to wait upon the Lord and be open to His leading, allowing the Holy Spirit to have rightful lordship in their lives. The speaker highlights the need for a genuine expression of the Spirit of God and the importance of gathering together in a way that allows God to reveal His glory. The sermon concludes with a reminder of God's promises and the assurance that His word will accomplish its purpose. The speaker references various biblical elements such as the sanctuary, the rain from heaven, and the preparation of a place for believers in God's sanctuary.
The Signature of God
By Grant Jeffrey2.1K1:02:23MAT 5:181PE 3:152PE 1:16The video titled "The Signature of God" is a two-part series that presents archaeological evidence supporting the trustworthiness of the Bible. It showcases archaeological digs in Jericho and the Dead Sea Caves, where confirmations of biblical events and even quotations from the New Testament were found. The video aims to satisfy the hunger of Christians who want to know if they can truly trust the Bible. It emphasizes that God presents evidence for us to examine and encourages Christians not to blindly accept other religious texts.
Hyper-Grace the Great Deception of the 21st Century
By Michael L. Brown1.7K1:06:31Hyper GraceJER 31:31MAT 5:18LUK 6:38LUK 16:16JHN 6:35JHN 15:5HEB 8:12In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal anecdote about their daughters and the concept of surrendering for the sake of blessings. They then discuss the preaching of the good news of the kingdom of God by Jesus, emphasizing that Jesus is the ambassador of the gospel. The speaker also mentions a viral article they wrote about judging others and clarifies that while we should not judge hypocritically or superficially, there is a biblical basis for judging those within the body of Christ. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of working and serving in the Lord, enduring hardships, and preaching the Word by reproving, rebuking, and exhorting with patience and teaching.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
(Where Is the Church Going) 6. One Day We Will Give an Account to God
By Miki Hardy1.2K1:07:06Judgment SeatISA 30:10JER 23:16JER 23:31MAT 5:181TI 6:3JAS 3:172PE 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying true to the gospel of Jesus Christ and not getting involved in messages that have no sense or are meant to entertain. He encourages Christians to keep sound doctrine and walk a holy life, fulfilling the requirements of the law. The preacher highlights the commandment of love as the foundation of Christian life, explaining that love is demonstrated through actions that resemble Jesus. He also references Jeremiah 23:1 to warn against shepherds who scatter and neglect the sheep, emphasizing the need for preachers and Christians to take their responsibility seriously as they will be held accountable by the Lord.
(The Head Covering) 09 - 1 Corinthians 11:16 and Answers to the Cultural Argument
By Tom Chaplin98254:26Head CoveringGEN 1:27GEN 2:24MAT 5:18MAT 19:11CO 11:16In this sermon, the preacher discusses the history of creation and the analogies between the relationships of God to Christ, Christ to man, and man to woman. He argues that these relationships have not changed and are still applicable today. The preacher also addresses the idea of being convinced and poses the question of what if someone still has doubts. He then introduces a theologian named R.C. and suggests that his teachings will be the subject of the sermon. The preacher concludes by asking for God's guidance and emphasizing the importance of true spiritual thoughts.
Life & Times of Jesus #16
By Jack Hibbs97558:24Millennial KingdomChrist's ReignISA 56:1ISA 65:17MIC 4:7ZEC 14:16MAT 5:18MAT 25:31ROM 8:21COL 2:9HEB 8:10REV 19:11Jack Hibbs concludes the series on the life and times of Jesus Christ by discussing the significance of Christ's millennial kingdom. He emphasizes that the millennium is a literal reign of Jesus on earth, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies and establishing God's justice, righteousness, and mercy. Hibbs explains that during this time, creation will be healed, and all people will have the opportunity to know the Lord. He encourages believers to be prepared for Christ's return and to share their faith with others, highlighting the importance of living in accordance with God's word.
Fellowship With One Another
By Erlo Stegen7481:00:32FellowshipMAT 5:18MAT 22:39JHN 17:212CO 6:14JAS 4:41JN 1:71JN 2:15In this sermon, the speaker expresses concern over the phenomenon of Christians backsliding into sin after a period of revival. He emphasizes that once a person becomes a Christian, they should never go back to their old sinful ways. The speaker references a specific incident in 1968 where a Christian wedding led to the closure of bars, cinemas, and dance floors for six years, but laments that these venues were eventually reopened. He also mentions the belief that those who backslide into sin after being baptized and taking part in the Lord's Supper will face a harsher punishment in hell. The speaker encourages listeners to pause and reflect on the message and warns against the negative influence of pop music.
Holy Spirit 11
By William MacDonald61026:15Holy SpiritMAT 5:18MAT 6:191CO 2:13GAL 3:162TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of accepting the Bible by faith and the authority it holds in preaching the word of God. He emphasizes that one cannot argue people into the kingdom of God, but rather encourage them to read the Bible and experience its living materials. The speaker also addresses the topic of money, stating that Jesus talked more about money than heaven and hell, and challenges the notion that everyone should be prospered. He highlights four common excuses people make to avoid following certain biblical teachings and urges believers to not explain away verses they don't like, but rather accept the Bible without reservations.
God's Strength & Faithfulness
By Robert B. Thompson6021:05:35MAT 5:18LUK 18:1ROM 16:202CO 1:201TH 5:17JAS 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of the upcoming difficult times to grow spiritually and help others. He believes that American Christians are too comfortable and need to become more serious with God. The preacher also discusses the brutal treatment of captives and how it should serve as a wake-up call for Christians to prioritize prayer and sacrifice for the gospel. He urges the audience to redeem their time and avoid wasting it on trivial pursuits, emphasizing the need to bear fruit in their lives. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God will ultimately crush Satan and that believers should trust in Him for guidance and provision.
Sermon on the Mount - Part 5
By David Servant57628:30MAT 5:18This sermon focuses on Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount, emphasizing the importance of upholding the Law and the Prophets, fulfilling God's commandments, and surpassing the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees. It highlights the significance of obedience, teaching others to follow God's commandments, and the necessity of grace leading to good works for entrance into the Kingdom of Heaven.
Jeremiah 31:31
By Conrad Murrell41630:28Christian LifeJER 31:31MAT 5:18JHN 1:17In this sermon, the preacher addresses the debate over the importance of observing the Fourth Commandment and the idolization of the Ten Commandments. He argues that Jesus' teachings in the Sermon on the Mount surpass the importance of the Ten Commandments. The preacher emphasizes the significance of understanding the new covenant and its impact on Christian doctrine and church life. He believes that ignorance of the new covenant and the imposition of the old covenant have led to various issues within the church. The sermon concludes with a call to explore and embrace the riches of the New Covenant life in Christ.
The Time of the End
By John F. Walvoord0PSA 19:1JER 30:7DAN 12:1MAT 5:18MAT 24:21REV 5:10REV 20:4REV 20:12John F. Walvoord preaches on the profound visions of Daniel, culminating in the great tribulation and resurrection, which are key events in the prophecies concerning both the Gentiles and Israel. The chapter division between chapters 11 and 12 is noted as unfortunate, as the narrative naturally extends through both chapters. The time of the end is highlighted as a period of intense trouble for Israel, leading to a special deliverance for those who worship God and the resurrection of the martyred. The revelation in Daniel 12 reveals major factors of the time of the end, including a world ruler, religion, war, great tribulation for Israel, deliverance, resurrection, judgment, and reward for the righteous.
The New Covenant . . . Distinguished From the Old
By Isaac Penington0DEU 30:14MAT 5:18LUK 16:16ROM 7:12ROM 8:42CO 3:6GAL 3:3GAL 5:1COL 2:16HEB 4:3Isaac Penington preaches about the distinction between the old covenant of the law and the new covenant of the gospel, emphasizing the transition from the shadow of the law to the substance found in Christ. He highlights the ministry of the Spirit in the new covenant, guiding believers to live in the Spirit and fulfill the righteousness of the law in a spiritual manner. Penington urges Christians to seek the eternal light of life, to understand the difference between the ministration of the letter and the ministration of the Spirit, and to wait on the Lord for the true understanding of His laws written in the heart.
Ten Reasons Why I Believe the Bible Is the Word of God
By R.A. Torrey0Authority of ScriptureFaith and DoubtMAT 5:18MRK 7:13LUK 24:27JHN 10:35JHN 14:26JHN 16:13R.A. Torrey presents ten compelling reasons for believing that the Bible is the Word of God, beginning with the authority of Jesus Christ, who affirmed the divine authorship of both the Old and New Testaments. He emphasizes the fulfilled prophecies, the unity of the Bible despite its diverse authorship, and the unmatched moral teachings found within its pages. Torrey also discusses the historical resilience of the Bible against attacks, the character of its believers versus its skeptics, and the transformative power it holds over lives. Ultimately, he concludes that the direct testimony of the Holy Spirit confirms the Bible's divine authority, making it a unique and indispensable guide for believers.
What Is Biblical?
By Robert P. Jr Dugan0MAT 5:18Robert P. Jr Dugan preaches about the absolute authority and trustworthiness of the Bible, emphasizing Jesus Christ's unwavering commitment to the Scriptures as seen in His responses to the devil's temptations. Evangelical Christians are urged to engage in political duties based on biblical principles, such as praying for leaders as instructed by the Apostle Paul. The sermon highlights the importance of informed involvement in politics, starting with intelligent intercession and progressing to active participation in party and campaign politics. Pastors are encouraged to equip believers for political engagement through prayer, education, and participation, emphasizing the impact Christians can have on the nation's righteousness and morality.
The Threefold Overthrow of Self
By J.C. Philpot0MAT 5:18LUK 16:17ROM 3:31ROM 7:12GAL 3:24The preacher delves into the significance of the stroke (KJV = tittle) in the Hebrew letters, emphasizing its importance in distinguishing one letter from another. Jesus stressed the vital nature of every letter and word in the Old Testament, affirming that every aspect of the Law and the Prophets would be fulfilled. The sermon explores the meticulous attention Jewish teachers gave to preserving every stroke and letter in the Law of Moses. Jesus' teaching highlights the immutability of Scripture, asserting that not even the smallest detail of the Law would pass away until it was accomplished.
The Inspiration of the Bible
By J.C. Ryle0Authority of the BibleInspiration of ScripturePSA 119:160PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 5:18JHN 17:17ROM 15:41TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:21J.C. Ryle emphasizes the divine inspiration of the Bible, asserting that it is not merely a collection of writings but the very Word of God. He argues that the Bible's extraordinary depth, unity, wisdom, accuracy, and relevance to all humanity demonstrate its supernatural origin. Ryle contends that the belief in the Bible's plenary verbal inspiration is essential for understanding its authority and significance in guiding faith and practice. He challenges skeptics to explain the Bible's unique impact and coherence if it is not divinely inspired. Ultimately, Ryle calls for a firm belief in the Bible as the inspired Word of God, encouraging Christians to uphold this truth amidst modern doubts.
The Jews in Relation to the Coming of the Lord.
By William Kelly0HOS 3:5MAT 5:18ROM 11:291CO 15:27EPH 1:22William Kelly preaches about the importance of understanding and respecting the future restoration and blessing of Israel as prophesied in the Bible. He emphasizes that acknowledging and believing in God's faithfulness to His covenant with Israel is crucial in maintaining the integrity of His character and the reliability of His promises. Kelly warns against the danger of misinterpreting and misappropriating the prophecies concerning Israel, as it can lead to a distortion of the truth and a loss of the fullness of blessings that God intends for His people. By upholding the distinct heavenly position of the Church and the special earthly restoration of Israel, believers can honor God's word, appreciate His sovereignty, and partake in the complete inheritance offered through Christ.
June 23, 1841 to the Editor of the Oberlin Evangelist
By Charles Finney0Inspiration of ScriptureDefense of FaithPSA 119:160PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 5:18JHN 10:35ROM 15:41TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:20Charles Finney expresses his deep concern over an article in the 'Supplement' of the Comprehensive Commentary that undermines the divine inspiration of the Bible, particularly the historical accounts in the New Testament. He argues that if the narratives of Christ's life are deemed uninspired, it casts doubt on the doctrinal teachings as well, leading to a spirit of infidelity among believers, especially the youth. Finney emphasizes that the supposed contradictions among the Gospel writers actually support their credibility, as they indicate no collusion. He urges ministers to address this issue within their congregations to prevent the spread of such dangerous ideas. Finney's call to action highlights the importance of defending the integrity of Scripture against misleading interpretations.
How to Smell a Rat
By Anton Bosch0NUM 23:19PSA 119:89PSA 119:105MAT 5:18MAT 24:35JHN 14:6JHN 17:17ROM 3:4HEB 5:14HEB 13:8Anton Bosch preaches about the importance of discerning between spiritual poison and spiritual food as Christians mature in their faith, emphasizing the need to distinguish between truth and error. He highlights that truth is absolute and unchanging, centered around Jesus Christ as the way, the truth, and the life. The sermon also stresses that the Bible is complete, with God's revelation delivered once and for all through Jesus Christ, and warns against false prophets claiming new revelations. Additionally, it underscores that God does not change His mind, and His Word is settled and unchanging, guiding believers to measure all teachings against the Bible to avoid falling into error.
Inspiration
By J.C. Ryle0Authority of the BibleInspiration of ScripturePSA 119:105PRO 30:5ISA 40:8MAT 5:18JHN 17:17ROM 15:41TH 2:132TI 3:16HEB 4:122PE 1:21J.C. Ryle emphasizes the divine inspiration of Scripture, asserting that the Bible is unlike any other book due to its unique authority and the special help given to its writers by God. He argues that the Bible's extraordinary content, unity, wisdom, and accuracy demonstrate its divine origin, and that neglecting it poses a grave danger to one's spiritual well-being. Ryle challenges skeptics to consider how the Bible, written by various authors over centuries, maintains a consistent message and profound impact, asserting that its inspiration is essential for understanding God's will. He calls for Christians to read the Bible with reverence and prayer, recognizing it as the Word of God that meets the spiritual needs of all humanity.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For verily I say unto you--Here, for the first time, does that august expression occur in our Lord's recorded teaching, with which we have grown so familiar as hardly to reflect on its full import. It is the expression manifestly, of supreme legislative authority; and as the subject in connection with which it is uttered is the Moral Law, no higher claim to an authority strictly divine could be advanced. For when we observe how jealously Jehovah asserts it as His exclusive prerogative to give law to men (Lev 18:1-5; Lev 19:37; Lev 26:1-4, Lev 26:13-16, &c.), such language as this of our Lord will appear totally unsuitable, and indeed abhorrent, from any creature lips. When the Baptist's words--"I say unto you" (Mat 3:9) --are compared with those of his Master here, the difference of the two cases will be at once apparent. Till heaven and earth pass--Though even the Old Testament announces the ultimate "perdition of the heavens and the earth," in contrast with the immutability of Jehovah (Psa 102:24-27), the prevalent representation of the heavens and the earth in Scripture, when employed as a popular figure, is that of their stability (Psa 119:89-91; Ecc 1:4; Jer 33:25-26). It is the enduring stability, then, of the great truths and principles, moral and spiritual, of the Old Testament revelation which our Lord thus expresses. one jot--the smallest of the Hebrew letters. one tittle--one of those little strokes by which alone some of the Hebrew letters are distinguished from others like them. shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled--The meaning is that "not so much as the smallest loss of authority or vitality shall ever come over the law." The expression, "till all be fulfilled," is much the same in meaning as "it shall be had in undiminished and enduring honor, from its greatest to its least requirements." Again, this general way of viewing our Lord's words here seems far preferable to that doctrinal understanding of them which would require us to determine the different kinds of "fulfilment" which the moral and the ceremonial parts of it were to have.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For verily I say unto you,.... Or "I Amen say unto you", which is one of the names of Christ; see Rev 3:14 or the word "Amen" is only used by Christ as an asseveration of what he was about to say; and which, for greater confirmation, is usually doubled in the Evangelist John, "Amen, Amen", or "verily, verily". The word is used by the Jews (w) for an oath; they swore by it; and it is a rule with them, that whoever answers "Amen" after an oath, it is all one as if he had pronounced the oath itself. The thing so strongly affirmed in this solemn manner is, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. The "or jot", in the Greek language, answers to "jod" in the Hebrew, the least of all the letters in the alphabet; hence a little city is called by this name, and this reason is given for it, (x) , "because that jod is the least among letters". We read also of Rabbi Jod (y), perhaps so called because , he was little, as the author of Juchasin observes (z). This shows in what language the law was written; not in the Samaritan language, for the jod in that is a large letter, but in the Hebrew, in which it is very small; and particularly is written in a very diminutive character, in Deu 32:18 "by one tittle" some think is meant one of those ducts, dashes, or corners of letters, which distinguish one letter from another, that are much alike; others have thought that one of the pricks or vowel points is intended; others, one of those little strokes in the tops of letters, which the Jews call (a) "crowns" and "spikes", is here meant, in which they imagined great mysteries were contained; and there were some persons among them, who made it their business to search into the meaning of every letter, and of everyone of these little horns, or pricks, that were upon the top of them. So says R. Meir (b), "in the time of the prophets there were such who very diligently searched every letter in the law, and explained every letter by itself; and do not wonder at this that they should expound every letter by itself, for they commented , upon everyone of the tops of each letter.'' Such an expounder was Akiba ben Joseph (c). To which custom Christ is here supposed to have respect: however, certain it is that he speaks very much in the language, and agreeably to the mind of the Jewish doctors; and some things in their writings will serve to illustrate this passage, "If, (say they (d),) all the nations of the world were gathered together, "to root one word out of the law", they could not do it; which you may learn from Solomon, who sought to root "one letter out of the law", the letter "jod", in Deu 17:16 but the holy blessed God said, Solomon shall cease, and an hundred such as he (in the Talmud (e) it is a thousand such as he) , "but, jod shall not cease from thee (the law) for ever".'' And elsewhere the same expression is used (f), and it is added, "ljbm ynya Kmm huwqw, "but a tittle from thee shall not perish."'' The design of Christ, in conformity to the language of the Jews, is to declare, that no part of the law, not one of the least commandments in it, as he explains himself in the next verse, should be unaccomplished; but all should be fulfilled before "heaven and earth pass" away, as they will, with a great noise and fervent heat, as to their present form and condition; or sooner shall they pass away, than the least part of the law shall: which expresses the perpetuity of the law, and the impossibility of its passing away, and the superior excellency of it to the heavens and the earth. It is a saying of one of the Jewish doctors (g), that "the whole world is not equal even to one word out of the law,'' in which it is said, there is not one letter deficient or superfluous. (w) T. Hieros. Kiddushin, fol. 60. 4. Misn. Bava Kama, c. 9. sect. 7, 8. T. Bab. Shebuot, fol. 36. 1. Debarim Rabba, fol. 242. 2. Maimon Hilch. Shebuot, c. 2. sect. 1. (x) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 21. 2. & Gloss. in ib. (y) T. Bab. Taanith, fol. 22. 2. (z) Fol. 93. 2. (a) T. Bab. Menachot, fol. 29. 2. (b) In Semitis fidei, fol. 104. 4. & 105. 1. apud Capell. in loc. (c) T. Bab. Menachot, fol. 29. 2. (d) Vajikra Rabba, fol. 160. 3. Shirhashirim Rabba, fol 20. 2. (e) T. Hieros. Sanhedrim, fol. 20. 3. (f) Shemot Rabba, fol. 96. 1. (g) T. Hieros. Peah, fol. 15. 4.