The Proper Motive for Righteousness

This morning we begin a new section within the Sermon on the Mount, but its theme is the same as we have been studying since we entered into this wonderful section of Scripture. What is the nature of the righteousness that surpasses that of the Scribes and Pharisees that is necessary to be able to enter the kingdom of heaven? In the Beatitudes we saw the characteristics that will mark the person who is righteous in heart: Poor in Spirit, Mournful over sin, Meek, Hungering and thirsting after righteousness, Merciful, Pure in heart, and a Peacemaker with the result that the unrighteous will persecute them. None of these characteristics can be produced by man’s own effort, They are produced only in those who have been regenerated by the Holy Spirit.