Jesus sat before the people and uttered what must have been to them shocking words: Unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 5:20). Few were more scrupulous in the observance of the letter of the law than were the Pharisees. Nevertheless, they failed because their behavior was intended to impress men more than to please God. Jesus warns us not to do likewise (Matt. 6:1).
How, then, can we be righteous before God? The parable of the marriage feast gives us the clue in finding the source of true righteousness. We explore this parable in Matthew 22:1-13. Additional scriptures referenced include Matthew 21:23; John 8:56; Isaiah 61:10; Genesis 3:7; Isaiah 64:6; Revelation 19:8-9; and Ephesians 5:27.
The stories of Daniel in the lion’s den and Jesus on the cross, despite their contrasting contexts, share profound themes of faithfulness, obedience, and...
What are some verses in Judges on which we ought to meditate? Scriptures referenced include Romans 10:17; Hebrews 4:12; Isaiah 55:11; Hebrews 11:6; and...
The theme of peace is woven throughout the book of Isaiah. The prophet speaks of the “Prince of Peace,” of the Lord who “makes...
