Righteousness
Who alone has the authority to determine what is right or just?
Relevant Bible account(s):
Ge 18:23-33—Jehovah shows Abraham that He is a righteous Judge
Ps 72:1-4, 12-14—This inspired psalm praises the Messianic King, who perfectly reflects Jehovah’s righteousness
How do we benefit from living by Jehovah’s righteous standards?
Ps 37:25, 29; Jas 5:16; 1Pe 3:12
See also Ps 35:24; Isa 26:9; Ro 1:17
Relevant Bible account(s):
Job 37:22-24—Elihu praises the righteousness of Jehovah, who inspires profound awe in the heart of His servants
Ps 89:13-17—The psalmist praises Jehovah for basing His rulership on righteousness
What does it mean to seek God’s righteousness?
Why must our righteousness be based on love for Jehovah rather than on a desire to appear righteous before humans?
Mt 6:1; 23:27, 28; Lu 16:14, 15; Ro 10:10
Relevant Bible account(s):
Mt 5:20; 15:7-9—Jesus tells people to be righteous but not according to the standards set by the scribes and Pharisees, who are hypocritical
Lu 18:9-14—Jesus gives an illustration to correct those who seek to prove themselves righteous while looking down on others
Why is goodness even better than righteousness?
Why should we avoid being self-righteous and resist any urge to prove ourselves more righteous than others?