July 17, 2026
Increase in Us True Religion - Part 5
Matthew 5:20
07/17/2026
20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds
that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never
enter the kingdom of heaven. (ESV)
This week we have prayed:
Lord of all power and might, author and giver of all
good things, graft into our hearts the love of Your
name, increase in us true religion, nourish us with all
goodness, and of Your great mercy keep us in the same.
False religions demand works, demand rituals, demand a show
of personal piety. Unless you perform exactly what the religion
demands, you have no hope of redemption, no hope of eternal life.
Even if you strictly follow the rules and traditions, you are
never assured that your works and sacrifices are enough.
Jesus told His followers: ``For I tell you, unless your
righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will
never enter the kingdom of heaven.'' The scribes and Pharisees
displayed the utmost respect for the external rituals and rules
of the religion but rejectd God's grace.
Christians are at the same time saints and sinners. We are
redeemed from the guilt of our transgressions by the blood of
Jesus Christ, yet we continue to sin. Therefore we continue to
ask God for His mercy. True religion is this, you are declared
holy and righteous in God's sight because Jesus bore the guilt of
your sin. You are declared innocent, the charges against you are
dropped, and the price has been paid.
We have the privilege of responding to this good news by
gathering each Sunday morning at 9:00 a.m. to receive God's gifts
of grace, love, and mercy. Please join us to learn more of this
truth. God grant it for Jesus' sake. Amen.