Because Jesus’ teaching and lifestyle differed from that of the Pharisees and scribes, he would be accused of breaking God’s law. For example, when it comes to his views on the Sabbath (Matthew 12:1–21), fasting (Matthew 9:14–17), purity (Matthew 15:10–20), divorce (Matthew 19:1–12), and mixing with sinners (Matthew 9:10–13), he stood in sharp contrast with the legal norms of his day. 1 Anticipating the negative responses, Jesus prepares his disciples by affirming that he has not come to abolish (do away with) either the Law or the Prophets. His teaching, and the pattern of his life, must not be misunderstood as an undermining of God’s revelation, but a fulfillment of God’s revelation. 2
17 “Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.