Hypocrisy

I read something today that intrigued me enough to want to explore the idea more here today. The topic was hypocrisy within the church. When most of us hear this term we immediately think of the people who are quick to acknowledge Jesus in words, but are far from reflecting Him in their actions or in their thoughts. There is another side of this word I would like to examine. What about the hypocrisy of what is in our hearts, but we do not display it on the outside? Just as there can be hypocrisy on the outside (the outside clean, the inside dirty), there can also be hypocrisy on the inside (our inside is clean, yet our actions do not reflect this).

For most of our Christian walk we are told that once Jesus comes to live in us, we begin to change. This is very true. But what about those of us who believe in Jesus and yet never talk about Him. When was the last time you shared your faith with a coworker or friend? Maybe there are family members you know are not in a relationship with Christ, yet you never mention His name when you are around them. Is this not also hypocrisy? It could be you want to share something on Facebook, but because it has such a strong Christian message, you don't share because of what people might think of you.

This may seem something impossible to do once you have experienced the life changing power of Christ, however Jesus knew we could do just this very thing. If not, then why would He have said:

"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16


Jesus is the light inside of us. If we live a life that does not reflect this, then we live in hypocrisy to our hearts. In Matthew 23 Jesus addresses the hypocrites of His day with several "woe's." I believe the following can be said for those of us with Christ in our hearts, but neglect Him in our actions:

"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cumin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." Matthew 23:23

Perhaps we tithe faithfully, attend church regularly, and even read our Bible daily. These are all things we can do without much fanfare or recognition from the world. We know where are hearts are with God in these matters. However, if we lack justice, mercy, and faithfulness, then we are no different than the Pharisees. Do you know anyone who could use some mercy in their lives? 

I pray for each of you (myself included) to have areas of hypocrisy revealed in your life. I pray for each of us to recognize the opportunities we are given to share God's love with someone. I pray for a boldness to conquer the fear of rejection or of public opinion. I would love to hear how you step out and share your faith!