1.1 The Heart of Righteousness: Jesus taught that righteousness is not just about external acts, but about the condition of the heart. The Pharisees were meticulous in their observance of the law, but Jesus criticized them for their lack of genuine love and mercy. True righteousness begins in the heart. Matthew 15:18-20
1.2 The Fruit of Righteousness: Jesus emphasized that a righteous life will produce good fruit. Our actions and words are the fruit of what is in our hearts. True righteousness will naturally lead to good deeds and words. Matthew 7:16-20
2.1 Love God: Jesus taught that the greatest commandment is to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. This is the first and greatest commandment. True righteousness involves a deep, passionate love for God. Mark 12:30
2.2 Love Your Neighbor: The second greatest commandment, according to Jesus, is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This includes not just our friends and family, but also our enemies. True righteousness involves a selfless love for others. Matthew 22:39
3.1 Obeying God's Commandments: Jesus taught that if we love Him, we will keep His commandments. True righteousness involves obedience to God's will as revealed in His Word. John 14:15
3.2 Doing God's Will: Jesus emphasized that not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father in heaven. True righteousness involves actively doing God's will in our daily lives. Matthew 7:21
4.1 Faith in Jesus' Death and Resurrection: Jesus taught that righteousness comes through faith in Him. He died on the cross for our sins and was raised to life for our justification. True righteousness is received through faith in Jesus' death and resurrection. Romans 4:24-25
4.2 Living by Faith: Jesus emphasized that we are to live by faith in Him. This includes trusting Him in all circumstances and following Him daily. True righteousness involves a life of faith in Jesus. John 14:1