Sermon: When Actions Contradict Stated Beliefs
#1817
Martin G. Collins
Given 10-May-25; 62 minutes
Hypocrisy consists of professing beliefs or virtues that one does not genuinely possess. The primary motivator is pride, and its resulting sin is namely lying. In the Old Testament, the term "hypocrite," which is translated from Hebrew, means "to cover" or "to hide," frequently referring to those who pretend to be religious while secretly violating things sacred. In the New Testament, the Greek word "hypocrite" had its origins in theatrical contexts, indicating someone who pretends to be someone they are not, something Jesus exposed among the scribes and Pharisees, whose behavior was motivated by pride and desire for public approval. Jesus indicated that their charitable deeds were done for show rather than for genuine compassion. Their prayers were performed publicly to receive praise rather than for private devotion. Their fasting was done for phony appearances of piety. Jesus warned His disciples, then and now, against harsh judgment of others, but instead directed us to thoroughly examine ourselves before criticizing others. Jesus criticized the meticulously legalistic approach, nitpicking on minor details while ignoring justice, mercy, and faith. Paul confronted Peter's hypocrisy in separating from Gentiles, emphasizing the importance of confronting this hypocrisy directly. Paul encouraged sincere lives without hypocrisy and Jesus's half-brother emphasized wisdom that is pure and sincere, contrasted with selfish and deceptive behaviors. We must cultivate sincere love and true wisdom, avoiding the pitfalls of hypocrisy.
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