Think about the Pharisees of Jesus’ day. They did their best to avoid sin. They were careful to live righteous lives. Yet, today’s verse states what Jesus thinks of outward morality or conformity.

There are people who are kind, generous, grateful, helpful, loyal and honest with everyone but God. They would not think of offending you, but they offend God constantly. Remember the Rich Young Ruler?

He claimed he had kept the commandments of God. He said to Jesus, “Master, all these have I observed from my youth.” Jesus said to him, “One thing thou lackest: Go your way, sell whatsoever you have and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me” (Mark 10:20-21).

His outward morality was spotless, but he lacked the most important thing, a willingness to follow Jesus at any cost.

Maybe you are a moral person, but that does not prove or disprove your salvation. You can be outwardly moral without being saved. You can be baptized and attend church but this does not make you a Christian.