Matthew shows that Jesus fulfills the requirements of the law. When John the Baptist hesitates to baptize Jesus (Matthew 3:14), Jesus does not deny that he is different from all the others who come for baptism, but he says, Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness (v. 15).1 After his baptism, Jesus completes a forty-day fast in the desert, and overcomes several temptations from the devil (4:1-11). In this manner, Christ demonstrates perfect ceremonial and moral obedience to Gods law. Christs work of redemption includes not only his voluntary acceptance of extreme suffering (Philippians 2:8), which theologians call his passive obedience, but to redeem Gods elect, Christ has to excel where Adam failed, so that he has to also demonstrate perfect active obedience to Gods laws and precepts. Paul explains, For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous (Romans 5:19). As a Jew born under law (Galatians 4:4), Jesus identifies with Gods covenant people by submitting under the law; however, unlike everyone else, he perfectly fulfills the requirements of the law. He demonstrates perfect active obedience and perfect passive obedience, so that God is perfectly pleased with him: This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased (Matthew 3:17). Vincent Cheung https://youtube/watch?v=9O0m_OtSVKk
Posted on: Sun, 28 Sep 2014 05:46:12 +0000
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