Matthew 5:20 “For I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.”
What is righteousness?
Righteousness is justice within the context of a covenant relationship. When a person fulfils the obligation of a relationship, that person is said to be righteous.
“The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, Revised”
1 John 3:7 “Little children, let no one deceive you. The one who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous.”
Christian Standard Bible (Chapter 9)
Matthew 9:13 “Go and learn what this means: I desire mercy and not sacrifice. For I didn’t come to call the righteous, but sinners.””
