In Matthew 23, Jesus had a very stern warning against hypocrisy. Hypocrisy is fundamentally “playacting.” One is playing a part that is neither real nor authentic.
In the theatre, this may be applauded and cherished. In the realm of the spiritual world, it is a calamity. The world sees right through the inconsistencies and a major credibility gap is created. It also leaves a foul taste for what it really means to be a true follower of Jesus.
The religious leaders of Jesus Day were strutting around, bluffing everyone. They laid “heavy loads” of rules and regulations on the people when they themselves were neither prepared nor able to keep them (v:4). Everything seemed to be for show and self-promotion. (v:5)
Jesus did not hesitate to call them out on their “playacting” and took the occasion to warn the crowds and his disciples, “…do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach.” (v:3). There was an alarming disconnect between their words and their deeds. Between what they taught and what they practiced! Jesus called these religious hypocrites – blind leaders, blind fools, snakes, and a brood of vipers! And He gave this earthshaking indictment! “Woe to you teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.” (v:27)
The hypocrisy of professed Jesus' followers is possibly one of the single most frequently identified detractors or stumbling blocks for those considering Jesus.
God and the world are looking for “the real deal” people! They are looking for authentic followers of Jesus who bear His image, radiate His attributes, and walk in His ways. Little Christs! Genuine people of God who infiltrate and impact their world as salt and light. No fluff! No phoniness! No posturing! No play-acting! But THE REAL DEAL!
James 1:26-27 says, “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself, and his religion is worthless. Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress (…don’t stop!) and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.”
Be blessed my friend.
Glen (Pitts)
The Barnabas Group / Loads of Love
