Matthew 5:20 For I say to you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees… I. The nature of that righteousness which distinguished the Scribes and Pharisees. Was, according to God's law, extensive, connected with great devotion, self-denial, liberality, and zeal. II. The nature of that righteousness necessary to our entering the kingdom of God. Ours must " exceed " theirs in its origin, nature, extent, end, effects. The revelation of this righteousness is given in God's blessed Word. It is obtained by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. who is made unto us, "wisdom," etc. The purity of the Divine law, etc., render this righteousness necessary. (Dr. Burns.) 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. |