The New Testament Witness to Christ and His Kingdom, Student Workbook, SW13

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T H E N E W T E S T A M E N T W I T N E S S T O C H R I S T A N D H I S K I N G D O M

i. He is the Redeemer , Hos. 13.14 with Rev. 5.9.

j. He is the Bridegroom , Isa. 62.5 with Matt. 25.1ff.

B. On the majesty of his kingdom ethics: Sermon on the Mount

1. Jesus’ own person is the fulfillment of the righteousness required by God’s law, Matt. 5.17-18.

2. He gave final interpretation to the meaning and significance of the Old Testament promise and commandment, e.g., Matt. 5.27-28.

3. Jesus’ teaching represents the ethic of God’s kingdom rule now proclaimed in his person and work.

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a. His work contrasts with Old Testament interpretation given by the rabbis, Matt. 7.28-29 (cf. Matt. 15.1-9; Mark 7.5ff.).

b. His ethic super-extends the righteousness demanded by the tradition, Matt. 5.20.

c. He spoke not as the scribes and rabbis: he spoke with absolute authority to interpret the Scriptures for they testified of his person and work , John 5.39-40.

4. Loving God and people: the commandments on which the entire Law hinges and swings, Matt. 22.36-40.