Jesus condemned the scribes and Pharisees for being hypocrites (Matthew 23:13-30). Hypocrites are actors and pretenders. They live a double life (behaving one way before men and another way in private).
Beyond impacting a person’s relationship with God, a life of spiritual hypocrisy impacts several people.
Hypocrisy negatively impacts the world.
- The first step to effective evangelism is “shining” (Matthew 5:16). A Christian will not be an effective communicator of the gospel if he doesn’t first live it.
- Righteous and holy living can help persuade unbelieving spouses to turn to the Lord (1 Peter 3:1-2). How many people’s journey’s Jesus began by observing the faithful lives of their spouses?
- While the scribes and Pharisees were evangelistic, their hypocrisy led converts to become twice as bad (Matthew 23:15).
- The world will recognize if a Christian’s daily conduct doesn’t line up with their claim to be a follower of Jesus.
Hypocrisy negatively impacts our children.
- Timothy had a “sincere faith” (2 Timothy 1:5). He was a real and genuine disciple!
- Timothy learned how to develop an authentic faith by first observing it in his mother and grandmother. They taught him by this example how to be devoted to Jesus.
- Christians should be modeling true discipleship for their children today. They should be modeling a godly marriage, worship, parenting, and good works.
- Living a life of genuine Christianity will only help the biblical instruction be more effective (Ephesians 6:4).
Hypocrisy negatively impacts the church.
- Unfortunately, there have always been hypocrites in the church (Acts 5:1-11; Galatians 2:11-14; 1 Corinthians 5:1).
- Those who live hypocritical lives give those who oppose God an occasion to mock and blaspheme (2 Samuel 12:14).
- They hinder the spreading of the gospel and discourage many in the church (1 Corinthians 5:1-6).
- They can significantly disappoint and become a stumbling block for young and inexperienced people in the faith.
Conclusion:
Let’s always strive to be genuine disciples. There is too much at stake in our lives and the lives of others!