| RIGHTEOUSNESS!!! |
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"I tell you that you must do better than the teachers of the
law and the Pharisees. If you are not better people, then you
will not enter the kingdom of heaven."
-- Matthew 5:20 (ERV)
Jesus repeatedly and even deliberately enters into conflict with the
Pharisees and Scribes in Matthew's Gospel. Why? Why are Jesus' most
scathing denunciations directed at those most recognized as the
religious in his society? Jesus is concerned because God's truth often
got lost in their arguments over theoretical and picky religious
subjects. Their goal seemed to revolve around trying to justify
themselves and their actions without displaying the righteousness and
grace of God. Jesus wants his disciples to demonstrate the intent of
the Law in our lives. He wants us to display the heart and character of
God as his children in our daily lives. He wants his disciples to be a
new generation that has living the righteousness and grace of God as
its consuming passion.
Father, I want to be righteous. I want to live my life in a way that
reflects your love for the lost, your compassion for the broken, your
passion for holiness, and your disdain for hypocrisy. I know that this
holy life is not possible on my own, so please cleanse me and make me
holy by the power of your Spirit. Please bring forth the righteous
character of your Son in me. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen. |
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