Matthew 5:20 For I say to you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees… I. WHAT IT was. It consisted in — 1. A speculative knowledge of the truth and doctrines of religion. 2. A scrupulous observance of the forms of religion. 3. A freedom from scandalous sins. II. ITS DEFECTIVENESS AND INSUFFICIENCY. 1. The righteousness here spoken of is insufficient for justification. 2. It is insufficient as the evidence of a justified state. It fell short in three respects. (1) It was altogether external. (2) It was partial in its requirements. (3) It left its followers under the unrestrained influence of spiritual pride. 3. How delighted we should be that our righteousness does exceed that of the Scribes and Pharisees. (E. Cooper.) Parallel Verses KJV: For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. |
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