King James Version
Matthew 5:17 in the King James Version says “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.”
Matthew 5:17 · KJV
Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. a bushel: the word in the original signifieth a measure containing about a pint less than a peck
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“not”
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
“Think”
G3543properly, to do by law (usage), i.e., to accustom (passively, be usual); by extension, to deem or regard
“I am”
G2064to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
“to destroy”
G2647to loosen down (disintegrate), i.e., (by implication) to demolish (literally or figuratively); specially (compare g2646) to halt for the night
“the law”
G3551law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
“the prophets”
G4396a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
“I am”
G2064to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
“to destroy”
G2647to loosen down (disintegrate), i.e., (by implication) to demolish (literally or figuratively); specially (compare g2646) to halt for the night
“to fulfil”
G4137to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Matthew 5:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Matthew 5:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge