Over the last several weeks we’ve been learning the difference between authentic Christianity as presented by our Lord Jesus and religious formalism demonstrated by the religious leaders of Jesus’ day and many who profess faith today.
The apostle Paul would refer to this latter group as people who held “a form of godliness although they have denied its power.” Paul’s exhortation concluded with the warning to “avoid such men as these.”
Jesus simply called them what they were – hypocrites.
As we look back at this great teaching that started in chapter 5, we come to understand more and more why Jesus says what He says. For example, “You have heard it said, but I say to you” can be seen as Jesus saying “Your religious formalism demanded (such and such) but authentic Christianity, true righteousness is demonstrated by (such and such).”