The Bible presents righteousness as more than mere adherence to the law or external acts of piety. To obtain the righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes, we must understand the distinction between righteousness as a state of being in right standing with God and righteous acts as the evidence of that state.
The Importance Of Righteousness That Exceeds That Of The Pharisees And Scribes
In Matthew 5:20, Jesus makes a compelling statement about righteousness, saying, “For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees and the Scribes, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.” This raises a question: What kind of righteousness surpasses that of the most religious individuals of the time?
The Pharisees and Scribes were known for their strict adherence to the Law of Moses and the traditions of their elders. They followed the law outwardly but missed the inward transformation God desires. True righteousness that exceeds theirs is not rooted in mere actions but in a heart that seeks to live in harmony with God’s will.
How To Obtain The Righteousness That Exceeds That Of The Pharisees And Scribes: The Gift Of Righteousness: Not By Works But By Faith
Understanding Justification By Faith (Romans 3, Galatians 2:16, Galatians 3:11)
Paul emphasizes that righteousness cannot be earned through the works of the law. In Galatians 2:16, he writes, “A person is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ.” Likewise, Galatians 3:11 says, “Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because ‘the righteous will live by faith.’” These passages highlight that justification, or being declared righteous, comes through faith in Christ alone.
Romans 3 further underscores that righteousness is a gift of grace, made available to those who place their trust in Christ. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:23-24). Our own efforts are insufficient to meet God’s standards; only faith in Christ can bridge the gap.
The Righteousness Of God Is A Gift (Romans 5:17)
Romans 5:17 further illuminates that righteousness is not something we can achieve on our own. It states, “For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!” The righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees is not earned but received. It’s a gift that aligns us with God’s nature and is granted freely to those who put their faith in Jesus.
Warning Against Establishing Our Own Righteousness (Romans 10:1-4)
In Romans 10:1-4, Paul expresses his desire for his fellow Israelites to be saved, highlighting that their pursuit of righteousness was misguided. They attempted to establish their own righteousness through the law rather than submitting to God’s righteousness. This warning speaks to us today, cautioning us not to rely on our own efforts or moral standing, but instead to accept God’s gift of righteousness through faith.
Righteousness Versus Righteous Acts: A Distinction
Righteousness As A State Of Being
Biblically, righteousness refers to being in right standing with God, a state of alignment with His will and character. It is not an outward behavior but an inner condition of the heart, made possible by the sacrifice of Christ. In Philippians 3:9, Paul writes about being found “not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.” This righteousness is a divine gift that establishes a relationship with God.
Righteous Acts As Evidence Of Righteousness
While righteousness is a state of being, righteous acts are the actions that flow from that state. In other words, righteous acts, also known as good works, serve as the evidence of our alignment with God. Ephesians 2:10 explains, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” These acts do not earn us righteousness but are signs that we are living according to God’s purpose.
God’s Enabling Power For Good Works
Empowered To Do Good Works (Ephesians 2, Titus 2, Philippians)
Good works are made possible not by our own strength but by God’s enabling power. Philippians 2:13 teaches, “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” This verse demonstrates that any good we do is because God Himself is working through us, giving us the desire and strength to do what pleases Him.
Titus 2:14 reveals that Christ “gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.” Our eagerness for good works is a result of Christ’s redemption, transforming us into people who reflect God’s righteousness.
Living Out The Righteousness That Exceeds The One Of The Pharisees And Scrribes
Living By Faith, Not By Sight
Living a life of righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes involves a reliance on God’s grace rather than our efforts. It means acknowledging that our relationship with God is established through faith in Jesus, not our own merit. This frees us from striving to earn God’s favour and empowers us to live joyfully and authentically in obedience to His Word.
Reflecting God’s Righteousness In Our Actions
Although we cannot earn righteousness, we are called to reflect God’s nature in our behavior. Our lives should bear witness to the transformation He has brought about within us. This transformation, sustained by His Spirit, leads us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God (Micah 6:8). In this way, our righteousness shines forth, not as a means of salvation but as a testament to God’s power at work in us.
Conclusion
Obtaining the righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes is not about following a strict set of rules or performing acts of piety. It is about entering a right relationship with God, made possible by faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness is a gift that cannot be earned, only received. Once we accept it, God enables us to live a life that reflects His nature through righteous acts and good works.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Righteousness Exceeds That Of The Pharisees And Scribes?
The righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes is one rooted in faith and a personal relationship with God, not in outward observance of religious laws alone. In Matthew 5:20, Jesus addresses the need for a deeper righteousness, pointing out that the Pharisees, known for strict adherence to the Law, often missed the heart of God’s requirements. This kind of righteousness transcends legalism by emphasizing sincerity, humility, and trust in God over mere ritualistic compliance.
Righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees stems from an inner transformation made possible through faith in Jesus Christ. The Pharisees focused on external behavior but neglected the state of the heart, which is essential for genuine righteousness. True righteousness aligns with God’s nature and leads to a life characterized by love, mercy, and justice. Through faith, believers receive a gift of righteousness that goes beyond human effort and meets God’s standard of holiness. This righteousness flows from a heart made right with God, transformed to live in alignment with His will.
2. Can I Obtain The Righteousness That Exceeds That Of The Pharisees And Scribes?
Yes, you can obtain the righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes. This righteousness is a gift from God, offered freely to all who place their faith in Jesus Christ. According to Romans 5:17, righteousness is not something we earn through good works or strict adherence to the law; it is granted to those who accept it by faith. This is a righteousness that goes beyond outward religious acts and focuses on an authentic relationship with God.
Through faith in Jesus, you are justified—declared righteous before God—not because of your own merit but because of Christ’s sacrifice. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that this righteousness is received through grace, not earned. Once you believe, the Holy Spirit works within you, empowering you to live a life that reflects God’s character. As you grow in your faith, your actions naturally begin to reflect your righteousness, demonstrating love, kindness, and compassion, which fulfill the heart of God’s commandments.
3. How Do I Obtain The Righteousness That Exceeds That Of The Pharisees And Scribes?
To obtain the righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes, you must place your faith in Jesus Christ, who fulfills the requirements of righteousness on our behalf. This means recognizing that your own efforts are insufficient to meet God’s standards and that only through Jesus can you be justified. According to Romans 3:22, righteousness is given “to all who believe.”
Accepting Christ as your Savior is the first step. This faith aligns you with God, who then imparts His righteousness to you as a gift, as explained in Romans 5:17. This righteousness is not based on your actions or strict adherence to religious laws but on the perfect obedience of Jesus. Once you receive this gift, God’s Spirit works in you, enabling you to live in a way that reflects this new righteousness.
To grow in righteousness, engage in regular prayer, study the Bible, and pursue a close relationship with God. These practices help you understand His will and strengthen your walk in faith, leading to a life that genuinely reflects His love and justice.
4. What Is The Difference Between Righteousness And Righteous Acts Which Are Also Known As Good Works?
Righteousness and righteous acts are related but distinct. Righteousness refers to a state of being in right standing with God—a position or relationship that is established by faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness is granted as a gift and not achieved through one’s own efforts (Romans 5:17). It is an internal state reflecting our acceptance of God’s grace and forgiveness.
On the other hand, righteous acts, or good works, are outward expressions that flow from this inner righteousness. These acts are evidence of our faith and obedience to God’s commands. For instance, helping those in need, showing compassion, and living a morally upright life demonstrate our faith. Ephesians 2:10 clarifies that we are created in Christ Jesus “to do good works,” which are the result of our righteous standing with God.
In summary, righteousness is the root—a state of alignment with God—while righteous acts are the fruit, or the visible actions that manifest from our faith.
5. Is Righteousness A Behavior Or A State Of Being?
Righteousness is primarily a state of being, not a behavior. This state of being signifies being in right relationship with God, established through faith in Jesus Christ. According to Philippians 3:9, righteousness is not something we attain by our actions but is a gift we receive by faith, aligning us with God’s nature.
While behaviors may reflect our righteousness, they do not constitute it. Righteousness is fundamentally about having a transformed heart and mind, living in harmony with God’s will. When we accept Christ, we are made righteous in God’s sight, a position that remains even as we continue to grow in faith.
This righteousness is the foundation of a Christian life, leading to behaviors that honor God. Our actions should reflect the inward change, but they are outcomes, not the basis of our standing before God. In essence, righteousness is a divine state of being that produces behaviors aligned with God’s commands.
6. What Does It Mean To Have A Righteousness That Exceeds The Pharisees?
Having a righteousness that exceeds the Pharisees means living a life that goes beyond mere external compliance with religious laws. It entails an inward transformation rooted in faith in God, leading to authentic devotion rather than ritualistic behavior.
The Pharisees were known for their strict observance of the law, but they often missed the spirit behind it, focusing on appearances rather than heart change. Jesus emphasized in Matthew 5:20 that genuine righteousness requires more than rule-following; it requires a pure heart and genuine faith.
True righteousness is about a relationship with God that shapes one’s motives, thoughts, and actions. It’s characterized by humility, compassion, and a desire to please God. Unlike the Pharisees, who sought recognition for their piety, those with exceeding righteousness seek to honor God through sincere devotion.
7. Why Does Jesus Emphasize A Righteousness That Surpasses The Pharisees And Scribes?
Jesus emphasizes a righteousness that surpasses that of the Pharisees and Scribes because they often focused on the outward appearance of holiness rather than the inner transformation God desires. In Matthew 5:20, Jesus challenges His followers to pursue a deeper, heart-centered righteousness that reflects true devotion to God.
The Pharisees practiced strict obedience to religious rituals but neglected love, mercy, and justice—the weightier matters of the law (Matthew 23:23). Their approach made righteousness about rule-following, missing the core of a relationship with God. Jesus, however, teaches that righteousness begins in the heart and produces genuine love for God and others.
Jesus calls for a righteousness that is motivated by faith and a desire to please God rather than merely seeking approval from others. This inner transformation results in a life that truly reflects God’s character, fulfilling His law not out of obligation, but love.
8. How Is Righteousness Received According To The Bible?
According to the Bible, righteousness is received as a gift from God through faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:22 explains, “This righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” Unlike the Pharisees, who relied on strict law-keeping, the Bible teaches that righteousness is not something we achieve by our own works but is granted freely by God.
This gift of righteousness is part of our justification, where we are declared righteous in God’s sight based on our faith in Jesus’ sacrificial death and resurrection. Romans 5:17 describes righteousness as “the gift of righteousness,” emphasizing that it’s not earned but received by grace. Once we receive it, we are spiritually aligned with God, establishing a right relationship that empowers us to live in a way that honors Him.
Receiving righteousness by faith means accepting that Jesus paid the price for our sins and acknowledging our need for God’s forgiveness and grace. It involves an internal transformation that changes not just our standing with God, but also our approach to life, encouraging actions that reflect His love and holiness.
9. Why Is Faith Essential To Obtain The Righteousness That Exceeds That Of The Pharisees And Scribes?
Faith is essential to obtain the righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees and Scribes because, according to the Bible, righteousness cannot be earned through human efforts or adherence to religious law. Instead, it is granted through faith in Jesus Christ, as stated in Galatians 3:11: “Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because ‘the righteous will live by faith.’”
The Pharisees believed that righteousness was achieved through rigorous observance of the law. However, this approach focuses on human effort rather than God’s grace. Faith, on the other hand, recognizes that our own actions are insufficient for true righteousness and that we must rely on Jesus’ sacrifice to make us right with God. Through faith, we are connected to God, aligning our hearts with His will, which leads to genuine righteousness.
Faith transforms us inwardly, producing the sincere desire to love and obey God, which in turn brings about righteous actions. In short, faith is what makes God’s gift of righteousness accessible, and it is this relationship of trust with God that goes beyond mere outward observance.
10. What Role Do Good Works Play In Righteousness?
Good works play a vital role in righteousness, but they are not the source of our righteousness. Instead, they are the natural result of a righteous relationship with God. According to Ephesians 2:10, believers are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Good works are the evidence of a transformed heart and life.
Righteousness itself is received through faith in Jesus Christ, but our good works serve as proof of this relationship with God. When we act in ways that reflect God’s love, compassion, and justice, we demonstrate that we are in alignment with His character. These acts do not earn us righteousness; rather, they validate the faith that God has placed within us.
Thus, good works are the fruit of righteousness, showing the world that our faith is alive and active. Titus 2:14 emphasizes that Jesus “purified for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good,” indicating that good works are part of our calling as believers, serving as a testament to our faith.
11. Does Obeying The Law Alone Grant The Righteousness That Exceeds The Pharisees?
No, obeying the law alone does not grant the righteousness that exceeds the Pharisees. Romans 3:20 states, “Therefore no one will be declared righteous in God’s sight by the works of the law; rather, through the law we become conscious of our sin.” The purpose of the law is to reveal God’s standards and make us aware of our need for a Savior, not to make us righteous on its own.
The Pharisees relied on strict adherence to the law, but they lacked the genuine faith and inner transformation that God requires. True righteousness goes beyond outward obedience to encompass a heart aligned with God’s will, which is only possible through faith in Christ. By trusting in Jesus’ sacrifice, we receive the righteousness of God, which fulfills the law’s demands on our behalf.
While obeying God’s commands is important, it is faith in Jesus that grants us the righteousness needed for salvation. This relationship with Christ enables us to live in a way that reflects His love, fulfilling the law’s intent through an empowered life.
12. What Is Justification By Faith In The Context Of Righteousness?
Justification by faith is a central concept in the Bible, where God declares a person righteous solely based on their faith in Jesus Christ. Romans 3:28 explains, “For we maintain that a person is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.” This means that God accepts us as righteous not because of our works but because we trust in Christ’s redeeming work on the cross.
Justification by faith underscores the idea that human efforts alone cannot achieve righteousness. When we place our faith in Jesus, we are forgiven of our sins, and God views us as righteous through the lens of Christ’s perfect obedience. This righteousness is imputed to us, meaning it is credited to our account as if we had perfectly fulfilled the law ourselves.
In the context of righteousness, justification by faith signifies that our relationship with God is restored, and we are no longer under the penalty of sin. Instead, we stand before God as His redeemed children, free to live in His grace and reflect His love in our actions.
13. How Does God’s Gift Of Righteousness Differ From Self-Righteousness?
God’s gift of righteousness differs from self-righteousness in that it is received through faith and humility, while self-righteousness is based on personal achievements or moral superiority. Romans 5:17 refers to righteousness as a “gift,” indicating that it is freely given by God to those who believe in Jesus Christ.
Self-righteousness, however, is an attempt to attain righteousness based on one’s own standards or adherence to laws. This often leads to pride and judgmental attitudes, as seen in the Pharisees, who prided themselves on outward acts while neglecting the inner transformation God desires.
God’s righteousness is rooted in grace, aligning our hearts with His, and transforming us into His likeness. It produces humility and love, as we understand our dependence on His mercy rather than our own merit.
14. Why Does Romans 10 Warn Against Establishing One’s Own Righteousness?
Romans 10 warns against establishing one’s own righteousness because it reflects a rejection of God’s grace. Romans 10:3 explains, “Since they did not know the righteousness of God and sought to establish their own, they did not submit to God’s righteousness.” Attempting to earn righteousness on our own terms ignores the gift of righteousness offered through faith in Christ.
The Israelites, for instance, tried to earn God’s favor by adhering to the law. However, this reliance on self-righteousness prevents one from accepting Christ’s sacrifice, which is the only way to true righteousness. Establishing one’s own righteousness leads to pride and separation from God’s grace.
The Bible encourages us to seek righteousness by faith, humbly submitting to God’s provision through Jesus. This approach acknowledges our need for God and aligns us with His redemptive plan, producing a righteousness that is authentic and lasting.
15. Can Good Works Earn The Righteousness Required To Exceed That Of The Pharisees?
Good works alone cannot earn the righteousness required to exceed that of the Pharisees. Ephesians 2:8-9 clarifies, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Good works, though valuable, do not make us righteous.
The Pharisees often performed good works but relied on them as evidence of their righteousness. However, Jesus emphasized that righteousness goes beyond actions and includes a sincere heart for God. True righteousness is a gift of faith that transforms us internally, empowering us to live in alignment with God’s will.
Good works are a byproduct of this righteousness, not its source. They are expressions of our faith and gratitude for God’s grace, reflecting the transformation that faith brings. Thus, while good works are important, they are not what makes us right with God.
16. What Role Does Grace Play In Obtaining The Righteousness That Exceeds That Of The Pharisees?
Grace plays a foundational role in obtaining the righteousness that exceeds that of the Pharisees. According to Ephesians 2:8-9, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” Grace is God’s unmerited favor, and it allows us to receive the gift of righteousness without having to earn it through the law or works.
The Pharisees focused on outward obedience to religious law, but they missed the essence of God’s grace. God’s grace, given through Jesus Christ, grants believers righteousness that surpasses anything we could achieve on our own. This righteousness is not based on human merit but on God’s love and mercy.
Grace is essential because it acknowledges that we cannot attain righteousness through our own efforts. Instead, it brings us into right relationship with God, transforming our lives from the inside out. By accepting God’s grace, we receive a righteousness that is complete and enduring, rooted in a relationship with Him rather than merely external actions.
17. Why Is Righteousness Through Faith Greater Than Righteousness By The Law?
Righteousness through faith is greater than righteousness by the law because it is based on a relationship with God rather than strict adherence to rules. Galatians 2:16 explains, “A person is not justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ.” Faith-based righteousness surpasses law-based righteousness as it involves trusting in God’s provision and aligning with His will, not merely performing acts of obedience.
The law reveals God’s standards and highlights human shortcomings, but it cannot make us righteous. True righteousness, granted through faith in Jesus, goes beyond observing rules to include inner transformation and sincere devotion. The Pharisees’ righteousness, based on outward compliance, lacked the heart change that faith in Jesus provides.
Faith-based righteousness fulfills the law’s intent by empowering believers to act out of love for God rather than obligation. This righteousness is more genuine and lasting, rooted in God’s grace and leading to a life that reflects His nature.
18. How Does Philippians 3 Describe Righteousness That Comes Through Faith?
Philippians 3:8-9 describes righteousness through faith as a deep trust in Christ rather than relying on one’s own accomplishments. Paul writes, “I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord…not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.”
In this passage, Paul contrasts his previous efforts to follow the law with the surpassing value of faith-based righteousness. He acknowledges that true righteousness is not found in personal achievements but is a gift from God, received through faith in Jesus. By trusting in Jesus’ work rather than his own, Paul demonstrates that righteousness involves surrendering human pride and recognizing the sufficiency of Christ.
Philippians 3 teaches that righteousness through faith brings a close, personal relationship with God, transforming believers from within. This inner transformation, rooted in faith, allows them to live in alignment with God’s purposes.
19. Is The Righteousness Of God A Reward Or A Gift?
The righteousness of God is a gift, not a reward. Romans 5:17 emphasizes this by describing it as “the gift of righteousness.” Unlike rewards, which are earned through actions or achievements, a gift is given freely, without any prerequisites. God’s righteousness is granted to us not because of our works but because of His grace and mercy.
The Pharisees viewed righteousness as something to be earned through strict adherence to religious practices. However, the Bible teaches that righteousness is something God bestows upon those who place their faith in Jesus Christ. This gift reconciles us with God, aligning our hearts and lives with His.
By understanding righteousness as a gift, we see God’s love and generosity, which transforms us from within. It is a gift that initiates a process of inner renewal and empowers us to live according to His will, producing good works that reflect our relationship with Him.
20. How Does God Enable Believers To Perform Good Works After Receiving Righteousness?
After receiving the gift of righteousness, God enables believers to perform good works through the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Ephesians 2:10 clarifies that believers are “created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Good works are part of God’s plan for believers, serving as the fruit of a life transformed by faith.
When a person accepts Christ, they receive the Holy Spirit, who works within them to grow in godliness and love. The Spirit helps believers understand God’s will, equipping them to live in ways that honor Him. Titus 2:14 explains that Jesus “purified for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good,” showing that good works are a natural result of a purified heart.
Through faith, believers are both justified and empowered to live righteously, reflecting God’s love and compassion in their actions. This process, known as sanctification, is an ongoing transformation that produces a life marked by good works in response to God’s grace.
Further Reading
- What Is The Righteousness Of The Pharisees Jesus Mentioned?
- The Benefits of the Gift of Righteousness: A Biblical Perspective
- How to Receive the Gift of Righteousness: A Biblical Perspective
- The Reasons Why we Need the Gift of Righteousness: A Profound Concept in the Bible
- What is the Gift of Righteousness? | A Profound Biblical Blessing
- What Is the Righteousness God Requires From Us?
- What is the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness? Exploring Biblical Foundations
- How Can I Seek the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness? A Comprehensive Guide
- The Meaning of to Seek First the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness
- Why The Kingdom of God is Righteousness, Peace, and Joy in the Holy Spirit
