HYPOCRITES “When you give to the poor, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do…When you pray, you are not to be like the hypocrites…Whenever you fast, do not put on a gloomy face as the hypocrites do.” Matthew 6:2-26 NASB Many people approach their spiritual lives like actors. The Bible calls such people “hypocrites.” In fact, the Greek word means an actor, someone who plays a role. Jesus had harsh things to say about hypocrites. Instead of allowing their hearts to be changed, they merely were seeking attention, without any concern for pleasing God. This is how they approached activities like prayer, fasting, and giving alms. Hypocrites were more interested in testing Jesus than in finding truth (Matthew 22:18). Their focus was on legalism and rules rather than on helping people experience God’s blessings. They wanted to look holy, but weren’t concerned that “inside they are full of robbery and self-indulgence.” Jesus warned that hypocrites like this would never enter the Kingdom of God (Matthew 23:13-51). Today, many people are hypocrites. Even people in the church, who may think they are Christians. They fail to realize that God looks at their hearts as well as their deeds. He’s looking for those who aren’t acting, but who are genuine. Don’t be a hypocrite. Remember that God knows your heart. You can fool other people, but you never can fool Him. Let Him transform you!
Posted on: Mon, 25 Nov 2013 23:49:39 +0000
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