Matthew 5:20

The Fulfillment of the Law · Matthew 5:17–20
Read Matthew 5

Translations

Modern
For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
Traditional
For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Literal
For I say to you that unless your righteousness should abound more than that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall certainly not enter into the kingdom of the heavens.
Latin
Dico enim vobis, quia nisi abundaverit justitia vestra plus quam scribarum et pharisæorum, non intrabitis in regnum cælorum.

Original

Greek
English
For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.

Notes

Unless your righteousness exceeds: The disciples of Jesus need a new kind of righteousness that only he teaches and makes possible. Matthew 5:21–47 shows this and 5:48 summarizes what it is.

This righteousness is different in amount and quality. Jesus is greater than the temple (12:6) and Jonah (12:41). So, the righteousness of his disciples must greatly surpass that of the Jewish religious teachers and Pharisees (see 3:7–9).

Events

People

Pharisee: A strict Jewish sect known for legalism and hypocrisy

Glossary

Beatitudes Biblical Concept of Law Discipline Gospel of Matthew Heal, Healing Jesus Christ Kingdom of God, Kingdom of Heaven Letter of James Marriage, Marriage Customs Moses Pharisees Reward Scribe Sea of Galilee

Topics

Church: Kingdom of Heaven Heaven: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Instruction in Religion Law: Temporary Pharisees Religion: True Righteousness: Fruits of Scribe(s): Hypocrisy of, Reproved by Jesus Self-Righteousness is Vain Because Our Righteousness Is: Ineffectual for Salvation The Pharisees: Christ: Declared the Imaginary Righteousness of, to be Insufficient Works: Insufficiency of, for Salvation