Matthew 22:40

All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Study Bible

All the Law and the Prophets
This phrase refers to the entirety of the Old Testament Scriptures, which were often summarized as "the Law" (Torah) and "the Prophets" (Nevi'im). The Law includes the first five books of the Bible, traditionally attributed to Moses, which contain the commandments and instructions given to the Israelites. The Prophets encompass the historical and prophetic books that convey God's messages through His chosen messengers. In a historical context, this phrase underscores the comprehensive nature of Jesus' teaching, as He encapsulates the essence of the entire Old Testament in the two commandments of loving God and loving one's neighbor. The Greek word for "Law" is "νόμος" (nomos), and for "Prophets" is "προφήτης" (prophētēs), both of which are foundational to Jewish religious life and identity.

hang on
The Greek word used here is "κρέμαται" (krematai), which means to depend on or be suspended from. This metaphorical language suggests that the commandments to love God and love one's neighbor are not just additional rules but are the very foundation upon which all other laws and prophetic teachings are based. In a spiritual sense, this indicates that the essence of God's requirements for humanity is relational and love-centered, rather than merely legalistic or ritualistic. The imagery of "hanging" implies that without these two commandments, the rest of the Law and the Prophets would lack purpose and coherence.

these two commandments
The two commandments referred to are found in the preceding verses: to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37), and to love your neighbor as yourself (Matthew 22:39). These commandments are drawn from Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18, respectively. In the Jewish tradition, these commandments were well-known, but Jesus elevates them to a position of supreme importance. The Greek word for "commandments" is "ἐντολαί" (entolai), which signifies authoritative prescriptions or orders. By emphasizing these two, Jesus highlights the centrality of love in the life of a believer, suggesting that true obedience to God is manifested through love, which fulfills the law (Romans 13:10). This teaching aligns with the conservative Christian perspective that emphasizes the transformative power of love as the fulfillment of God's will.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure in this passage, Jesus is responding to a question about the greatest commandment. His response highlights His authority and understanding of the Law.

2. Pharisees
A religious group in Judaism known for their strict adherence to the Law. They often challenged Jesus to test His knowledge and authority.

3. The Law and the Prophets
This phrase refers to the Hebrew Scriptures, particularly the Torah (the first five books of the Bible) and the writings of the prophets. It encompasses the entire Old Testament as understood in Jesus' time.

4. The Great Commandments
Jesus summarizes the Law with two commandments: love God and love your neighbor. These are foundational to His teaching.

5. Jerusalem
The setting of this discourse, where Jesus often taught and engaged with religious leaders.

Teaching Points

The Centrality of Love
Jesus teaches that love is the foundation of all commandments. Our actions and obedience should stem from a genuine love for God and others.

Unity of Scripture
The Law and the Prophets are unified in their purpose to guide us toward love. Understanding this helps us interpret the Old Testament in light of Jesus' teachings.

Practical Love
Loving God and our neighbor is not just a feeling but involves practical actions. Consider how you can demonstrate love in your daily life.

Heart Transformation
True obedience to God's commandments requires a transformed heart. Pray for the Holy Spirit to cultivate love within you.

Reflecting Christ
As followers of Jesus, our love for others should reflect His love for us. This is a powerful testimony to the world.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the context of "The Law and the Prophets" enhance our comprehension of Jesus' teaching in Matthew 22:40?

2. In what ways can you practically demonstrate love for God and your neighbor in your daily life?

3. How do the teachings in Romans 13:8-10 and Galatians 5:14 reinforce the message of Matthew 22:40?

4. Reflect on a time when you found it challenging to love someone. How can Jesus' teaching in this passage guide you in similar situations?

5. How does the concept of love as the fulfillment of the Law influence your understanding of other biblical commandments and teachings?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:5
Jesus quotes this verse when He speaks of loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind, showing the continuity of His teaching with the Old Testament.

Leviticus 19:18
The command to love your neighbor as yourself is directly from this verse, emphasizing the relational aspect of the Law.

Romans 13:8-10
Paul echoes Jesus' teaching by stating that love fulfills the Law, reinforcing the idea that love is the essence of God's commandments.

Galatians 5:14
Paul again emphasizes that the entire Law is fulfilled in keeping the command to love your neighbor, aligning with Jesus' teaching.

1 John 4:7-21
This passage expands on the concept of love, describing it as the defining characteristic of God's people and a reflection of God's nature.