Some commentators understand those who break the commandments to be those who reject Jesus. These people are not part of the kingdom, and therefore, Jesus is affirming that our eternal destiny depends on our response to his Word. This is a graphic testimony to his authority. 1 Alternatively, Jesus is emphasizing the fact that those who follow him cannot pick and choose among his commandments. They must submit to everything that he teaches. To cast off one command or principle is to ignore Jesus and cast off the law as a whole. 2 This seems to be the more natural understanding of what Jesus is saying; he wants to encourage his disciples to submit to all aspects of his teaching.
19 Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.