“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.”
2 Corinthians 5:10
As we have been exploring throughout this entire series of posts, The Kingdom of God is a kingdom- it is God’s rule and reign. Central to this kingdom is righteousness, a topic that Jesus talked about extensively in His teachings.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus explained what true righteousness looks like, contrasting it with the legalistic views of His time. He said, “For I tell you that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20, NIV). Jesus challenged His listeners to go beyond just following the law outwardly and instead live with love for God and others in their hearts.
In the biblical narrative, the concept of righteousness goes beyond simply following a set of rules or moral codes. Instead, it means being in alignment with the will and character of God, especially as shown through Jesus Christ. Righteousness, at its core, can be seen as being in harmony with God’s will and purposes.
Jesus Himself demonstrated righteousness by perfectly following God’s will. He said, “I seek not to please myself but him who sent me” (John 5:30, NIV), showing His complete submission to God’s authority. Jesus is the perfect example of righteousness, and we are all measured against His standard.
Judgment
Judgment in the Kingdom of God is about evaluating how closely we align with God’s will. It is not just about punishment, but about assessing how we have lived in relation to God’s reign. Jesus spoke about a future judgment where everyone will give an account of their actions and attitudes.
All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.
Matthew 25:32
This judgment also applies to communities and nations, as shown throughout the Bible. God judges societies based on their obedience to His commandments and how they treat the vulnerable. The prophets often warned of judgment on nations that continued in unrighteousness.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6:33
According to the Bible, believers are called to prioritize the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. This means not only focusing on personal piety but also actively working to promote God’s justice, mercy, and love in the world. It involves embodying the values of the Kingdom in our interactions and communities.
Ultimately, righteousness, as being in alignment with King Jesus, is about continually transforming our lives to match His will. Judgment is not something to fear, but a moment where our faithfulness and obedience are recognized, and our loyalty to the King is confirmed forever.
Additional Scriptures and Discussion Questions
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.
Matthew 5:20
Question: Jesus mentions that our righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees to enter the kingdom of heaven. What do you think He meant by this statement, and how does it challenge our understanding of righteousness?
By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.
John 5:30
Question: John 5:30 portrays Jesus as seeking to please the one who sent Him rather than Himself. How does this attitude reflect true righteousness, and how can we apply it in our lives?
Question: The post mentions judgment in the Kingdom of God as evaluating alignment with God’s will. How do you understand the purpose of judgment in the context of God’s reign?
Question: Matthew 6:33 instructs believers to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. What practical steps can we take to prioritize God’s kingdom and righteousness in our daily lives?
Question: Reflect on the statement that righteousness is about continually transforming our lives to match the will of King Jesus. What are some practical ways we can engage in this ongoing transformation?
Question: How does the understanding of judgment as a confirmation of our loyalty to King Jesus shape our perspective on the future and our present actions as believers?
For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?
1 Peter 4:17
Next week’s Topic: Salvation
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Tanner H Griffin 
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