More than self by Deon Crafford

Matthew 5:20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Righteousness is to be in right standing before God or simply put to be able to have a direct relationship with God. When Jesus enters the fray of the religious systems of His time, he finds a different interpretation of righteousness. It is righteousness entirely focused on one’s own benefit and social standing. It is to be righteous in relation to man-made systems and norms. It is entirely removed from God, hence Jesus’ strong admonition of the Pharisees and Scribes. Jesus knows that He will bring us all into right standing with God and He wishes to dispel the notion that your social norms and pious standards can bring you right before God. The pursuit of righteousness is not for self-consumption and benefit. In a direct and intimate relationship with God, righteousness becomes a perpetual source of love, inclusion, forgiveness and guidance to salvation. Righteousness in this sense equals humility. The church today is not rid of Pharisees and Scribes. We shall not lead people astray.

Love to all