I am a Jesus pusher!!! “You have heard it said to those of old, . . . But I say to you” (Matthew 5:21, 22). A contrast is in the six illustrations forming the “Fulfillment of the Kingdom, Application.” In each illustration, the contrast is between what they heard from the ancient ones and what Jesus said. The first two illustrations begin with, “You have heard that it was said to those of old” (Matthew 5:21 and 27). The third illustration abbreviates this by saying, “Furthermore it has been said” (Matthew 5:31). Then Jesus returns to the original introduction but adds one word. “Again you have heard that it was said to those of old” (Matthew 5:33). The last two illustrations begin with, “You have heard that it was said” (Matthew 5:38 and 43). These slight variations do not change the basic meaning or interpretation of the statement.
“But I say to you” (Matthew 5:22, 28, 32, 34, 39, and 44) is the opening statement of the following verse of each illustration, creating the contrast. No variation is in these phrases! This non-variation produces a consistent rhythm of authority authenticating the illustrations. The statement is emphatic, and there is no variance or adjustment. Jesus did not quote the source, “it was said to those of old.” He did not derive authority from the ancient ones. He did not align His statements with any teachers of His day. He did not even quote the Old Testament Scriptures that He came to fulfill. These are a declaration of the person of Jesus.
Will we listen to Him? I am a Jesus pusher!!!