Today’s reading portrays Jesus’ third confrontation in a row. Matthew consistently provides his readers with both a new focus within the Law and a new focus on the identity of the Messiah. In both cases, Jesus redefines the familiar and emphasizes the personal over principle.

When the Pharisees’ theological rivals, the Sadducees, fail to trip up Jesus with a second question, the Pharisees re-group and send out yet another emissary to engage Jesus. Granted, this third question — “Which commandment in the law is the greatest?” does not appear to be as divisive as the question about whether or not to pay the poll tax. But it was phrased in a way that made sure Jesus’ answer would alienate some.

According to rabbinic tradition there were 613 laws within the Torah. Each law was equally sacred, …