I am a Jesus Pusher! “Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill” (Matthew 5:17). In our verse, Jesus distinctly speaks about “His coming.” How is His coming related to the Scriptures? He was emphatic about this, saying it twice. His coming is the subject and verb of the two sentences in this verse. He does not want anyone to think, “I came” to destroy the Scriptures. He continues this emphasis by saying, “I did not come,” a translation of the Greek word “erchomai,” to destroy but to fulfill. The verb “erchomai” is in the aorist tense, active voice, and indicative mood, meaning it is a simple statement of fact. The aorist tense is without emphasis when the verb happens, but the focus is on the verb’s action. The active voice means the subject is participating and even responsible for the action of the verb.
Jesus gave this emphasis previously. His references are so numerous that they form “the coming statements” of Jesus. He instructed the disciples to go to the next towns saying, “that I may preach there also, because for this purpose I have come forth” (Mark 1:38). The Pharisees criticized Jesus for eating with tax collectors and sinners. His response was, “For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance” (Matthew 9:13). He instructed His disciples before sending them into ministry. “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword” (Matthew 10:34). In our passage and the additional verses, Jesus’ focus is on purpose. His relationship with the Scriptures defines the redemptive purpose of His coming. Redemption shapes His role and destiny. Would that not do the same for us? Do not live without your life discovered in the Scriptures. I am a Jesus Pusher!