(2) Based on your reading of Matthew’s Gospel, especially chapters 5-7 (i.e., the Sermon on the Mount), what is Matthew’s attitude toward the Jewish Law? How do the standards established by the Law of Moses differ from the expectations Jesus has for his followers?
After reading the selected passages from Matthew’s Gospel, it seemed to me that Matthew’s attitude towards Jewish Law was that what is written in Jewish law is correct, but needs to be more specific and needs a little more elaboration. The Law of Moses seems to be short and to the point, while still containing many good guiding principles. However, it easy to discern that some ambiguity can arise when considering Moses Law.
In chapter 5 of Matthew’s Gospel, He goes through what has been previously been said about what has been said about how act. He then elaborates more on each of the teachings. For example, he says “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you, everyone who looks at a women with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. If your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away.” (Matthew 5:27-29) This quote shows a common theme in what Matthew thinks about Jewish law. He begins by saying what was previously said and not disagreeing with it. He then adds more to the law and gives a short explanation on how to react when facing a relevant situation. The standards established by Jesus and his followers differ from Moses and his followers in that they are more specific. The phase “But I say” is commonly used after stating the original law to explain how Jesus’ expectations differ from the Law of Moses.
thebriansabino 
I agree with what you are saying about Jesus adding his own interpretation and spin to the laws. As with most aspects of the Bible, Jesus’s use of parables or allegories helps to elaborate on laws or teachings. In Matthew’s gospel, He is, again, going through how he deems fit to act.
I think it’s interesting, and correct, that you separate the Jewish Law of the Time and the Law of Moses. In Matthew, it really feels like Jesus is the continuation of the ancient prophets Abraham and Moses, and the reinforcement of these laws proves this point.
The idea that the commandments provide good rules but don’t have a lot of specifics re: how to apply them in particular cases is a good way to sum up the motivation behind Jesus’ long speech in Matthew 5-7 contrasting the way of the old Law of Moses with the new spin on it that Jesus gives. If you remember from last week, the Pharisees in particular had lots of rules about how to apply the Law in particular cases; Jesus’ central argument throughout much of this Gospel is that these rules inadvertently make it difficult and burdensome to keep the Law. On the other hand, keeping to the deeper intention of the Law can be really simple. (E.g., want to avoid murder? Then check yourself when you begin to get angry at someone.)
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