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Why did Jesus emphasize righteousness exceeding that of the Pharisees?

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Jesus emphasized this to reveal that mere outward compliance with the law is insufficient; true righteousness must originate from the heart.

In Matthew 5:20, Jesus states that unless our righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, we will not enter the kingdom of heaven. This teaching highlights the inadequacy of legalistic adherence to the law without heart transformation. The Pharisees maintained a façade of righteousness, but their interpretations of the law often minimized its true demands. Jesus illustrates that true righteousness is not just about avoiding external sins but also encompasses the internal condition of the heart, thus inviting His followers to seek a deeper, genuine relationship with God and a radical transformation that can only come through faith in Him.
Scripture References: Matthew 5:20

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Joshua

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