Actions

"For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.

"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. "Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny." (Matthew 5: 20 - 26 - NIV)


Righteousness certainly includes our actions, the dimension stressed by the Scribes and Pharisees. But, says Jesus, it also has to do with our words and attitudes. We do not share God's reign of love fully if we speak to and about others in ways that are demeaning or dismissive, or if we harbor hateful and destructive attitudes about them.

Remember, Christianity is a matter of the Heart as well as of Actions.