17/03/2026
REVIVAL BIBLE STUDY SERIES IN ASSEMBLIES OF GOD, ETEGWE NORTH
Topic: God's Standard of Righteousness
Memory Verse: Matthew 5:20 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.
Supporting Texts: Matthew 23:1-36, Mark 7:1-13, Luke 11:37-52
Teacher: Tony Rufus
Introduction
Jesus had strong words for the Pharisees, Scribes, and Sadducees, exposing their hypocrisy and spiritual blindness. Let's explore their characteristics and learn how to avoid their pitfalls.
Characteristics of the Pharisees, Scribes, and Sadducees
1. Hypocrisy (Matthew 23:3, 14, 25-28)
- They said one thing but did another (Luke 11:39-42)
- Outward piety, inward corruption (Mark 7:1-9)
2. Legalism (Matthew 23:4, 13-15)
- Burdened others with heavy loads (Luke 11:46)
- Missed the heart of the law (Matthew 23:23-24)
3. Pride and Self-Righteousness (Matthew 23:5-7, 29-31)
- Lived for praise and recognition (Luke 11:43)
- Despised others (Luke 18:9-14)
4. Spiritual Blindness (Matthew 23:16-22, 32-33)
- Misinterpreted Scripture (Mark 7:10-13)
- Refused to see Jesus' true identity (John 9:35-41)
5. Corruption and Greed (Matthew 23:14, 25)
- Exploited others for personal gain (Luke 11:39)
- Lived in luxury while ignoring the poor (Luke 16:14)
Jesus' Warning
"Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:20). Let's examine our hearts and surrender to Jesus' transformative power.
Conclusion
The Pharisees, Scribes, and Sadducees were spiritually bankrupt, despite their outward appearance. Let's not be like them. Let's pursue genuine faith, humility, and obedience to God's Word.
Song: It's not an easy road
1. It's not an easy road
We are traveling to heaven,
For many are the thorns on the way;
It's not an easy road,
But the Savior is with us,
His presence gives us joy every day.
No, no, it's not an easy road,
No, no, it's not an easy road;
But Jesus walks beside me
And brightens the journey,
And lightens every heavy load.
2. t's not an easy road
There are trials and troubles
And many are the dangers we meet;
But Jesus guards and keeps
So that nothing can harm us,
And smooths the rugged path for our feet.
No, no, it's not an easy road,
No, no, it's not an easy road;
But Jesus walks beside me
And brightens the journey,
And lightens every heavy load.
3. Though I am often footsore
And weary from travel,
Though I am often bowed down with care,
Well a better day is coming
When home in the glory
We'll rest in perfect peace over there.
No, no, it's not an easy road,
No, no, it's not an easy road;
But Jesus walks beside me
And brightens the journey,
And lightens every heavy load.