Note: Alan who normally writes these blog articles is taking some time off. In his place, this week's article is written by David Phillips, preacher for the Crestwood church of Christ near Louisville, KY.
Introduction. While Jesus walked this earth, He emphasized the character He expected of those who would enter His kingdom. Though many today are content with external service, it is only a pretense unless we give him our whole heart. “Judah has not turned to Me with her whole heart, but in pretense” (Jer. 3:10). Jesus warned that He will tell many on the last day “I never knew you” (Mt. 7:21-23), because “unless you be converted you cannot enter the kingdom.” We can’t just change our conduct; we must change our heart and will.
Inward or External Righteousness. “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven” (Mt. 5:20)
Although the Pharisees held strictly to their own traditions, Jesus only saw “whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness” (Mt. 23:27). To avoid this, we must look deep within ourselves and never settle only for an appearance of righteousness (Mt. 6:16, 18). Only a hunger and thirst for righteousness is enough. We must emphasize meekness, humility, and holiness. The obedience of those who live by faith begins in the heart (Mt. 7:21; Rom. 6:17)
Introduction. While Jesus walked this earth, He emphasized the character He expected of those who would enter His kingdom. Though many today are content with external service, it is only a pretense unless we give him our whole heart. “Judah has not turned to Me with her whole heart, but in pretense” (Jer. 3:10). Jesus warned that He will tell many on the last day “I never knew you” (Mt. 7:21-23), because “unless you be converted you cannot enter the kingdom.” We can’t just change our conduct; we must change our heart and will.
Inward or External Righteousness. “For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven” (Mt. 5:20)
Although the Pharisees held strictly to their own traditions, Jesus only saw “whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness” (Mt. 23:27). To avoid this, we must look deep within ourselves and never settle only for an appearance of righteousness (Mt. 6:16, 18). Only a hunger and thirst for righteousness is enough. We must emphasize meekness, humility, and holiness. The obedience of those who live by faith begins in the heart (Mt. 7:21; Rom. 6:17)