But Jesus, answering, said to him, “Allow it at this time; for in this way it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he *allowed Him.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“For I say to you that unless your righteousness far surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven.

Charitable Giving to the Poor and Prayer

“Take care not to practice your righteousness in the sight of people, to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.

For John came to you in the way of righteousness and you did not believe him; but the tax collectors and prostitutes did believe him; and you, seeing this, did not even have second thoughts afterward so as to believe him.