What did Jesus say about the pious?

In the biblical context, being pious generally refers to showing devotion to God through religious practices, moral living, and acts of charity. However, when Jesus spoke about the pious during His ministry, His words often carried a critical edge. He challenged superficial displays of religiosity, emphasizing the importance of inward sincerity over outward show. Understanding what Jesus said about the pious helps believers align their lives more closely with the spirit rather than just the form of faith.

Defining Piety in Jesus’ Time

In first-century Judea, piety was visible in daily life. Observant Jews prayed regularly, fasted, gave alms, and strictly followed the Mosaic Law. The Pharisees, scribes, and religious leaders were particularly known for their public displays of devotion. To be considered pious was to be seen as righteous and respected in society. Yet, Jesus’ teachings frequently drew a sharp distinction between genuine devotion and mere religious performance.

Jesus’ Critique of Hypocritical Piety

One of the most direct and repeated themes in Jesus’ teaching was His criticism of hypocritical piety. In Matthew 6:1-6, Jesus warned, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” He instructed His followers not to give to the needy, pray, or fast in ways that sought public approval. Instead, acts of devotion were to be done in secret, “and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”

Perhaps the strongest rebuke came in Matthew 23, where Jesus delivered a series of “woes” to the scribes and Pharisees. He called them “hypocrites” for meticulously observing religious rituals while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness (Matthew 23:23). Jesus compared them to “whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness” (Matthew 23:27). Here, He emphasized that God looks at the heart, not just the external observance of religious rules.

True Piety According to Jesus

While Jesus criticized false piety, He also taught what genuine devotion looks like. In Luke 18:9-14, He told the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. The Pharisee boasts of his fasting and tithing, while the tax collector humbly begs for God’s mercy. Jesus concludes, “I tell you, this man [the tax collector] went down to his house justified rather than the other.” True piety, Jesus taught, flows from humility, repentance, and a sincere relationship with God.

Jesus also honored acts of devotion that were authentic and sacrificial. When a poor widow put two small coins into the temple treasury, He told His disciples, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all others” (Mark 12:43). Her act was not about public recognition, but about love and trust in God.

Piety and the Greatest Commandments

Jesus summarized the heart of true piety in His teaching about the greatest commandments. When asked which commandment was the most important, He replied, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind… And… you shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:37-39). All religious practices, He said, should be grounded in love for God and others. Without love, religious rituals are empty.

Warnings Against Religious Pride

Throughout His ministry, Jesus warned against religious pride and spiritual elitism. In Luke 20:45-47, He cautioned His followers to beware of the scribes “who like to walk around in long robes, and love greetings in the marketplaces and the best seats in the synagogues… who devour widows’ houses and for a pretense make long prayers.” Jesus exposed how outward acts of piety could mask exploitation and pride. Instead of seeking honor for themselves, He taught that the greatest in God’s kingdom are those who humble themselves and serve others (Matthew 23:11-12).

The Heart of Jesus’ Teaching on Piety

Jesus’ message to the pious was not a condemnation of religious practice itself, but a call to align outward actions with inward sincerity. He valued prayer, fasting, giving, and obedience to God’s commands—but only when these flowed from a genuine heart. His teaching invites all believers to examine their motives: Are we seeking God’s approval or human praise? Are our acts of devotion animated by love, humility, and compassion?

Conclusion

For those who wish to follow Jesus, the lesson is clear: God desires hearts that love, repent, and serve, not just hands that perform religious duties. The path to true piety, according to Jesus, is the path of humility, sincerity, and love.