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What Does the Bible Say About Hypocrites? – Viral Believer
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What Does the Bible Say About Hypocrites?

In today’s world, it’s easy to put on a facade and pretend to be something we’re not. We might do it to impress others, to fit in with a certain group, or to gain personal gain. However, in Christianity, the idea of hypocrisy is not taken lightly.

The Bible warns against it repeatedly, condemning those who put on a false appearance while hiding their true selves.

In this blog post, we will explore what the Bible says about hypocrites and their dangers. We will look at the teachings of Jesus and other biblical references that highlight the seriousness of hypocrisy. We will also discuss the harm caused by hypocrisy and the importance of authenticity in the Christian faith.

As Christians, we must take this issue seriously and examine our own hearts and motives. Are we living authentically, or are we putting on a show for others? Let’s dive into this important topic and learn what the Bible has to say about hypocrites.

hypocrites in the Bible

The Definition of Hypocrisy in the Bible

The word “hypocrisy” comes from the Greek word “hypokrisis,” which means “play-acting.” In the New Testament, it is used to describe someone who pretends to be righteous but is actually a sinner.

The word “hypocrite” is also used in the Old Testament, where it comes from the Hebrew word “chaneph,” which means “profane” or “godless.”

In the biblical context, hypocrisy is not just a matter of pretending to be something you’re not. It is a matter of deception and betrayal.

Jesus referred to hypocrites as “whitewashed tombs, which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness” (Matthew 23:27 NKJV). Hypocrites may look good on the outside, but they are corrupt and unclean on the inside.

Jesus’ Teachings on Hypocrisy

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus consistently condemned hypocrisy, particularly among the religious leaders of his day. He called out the Pharisees for their hypocrisy and warned his disciples to avoid their example. In Matthew 23, Jesus delivers a scathing rebuke to the Pharisees, calling them “hypocrites” seven times.

In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14), Jesus contrasts the prayer of a self-righteous Pharisee with the humble prayer of a tax collector.

The Pharisee boasts of his own righteousness and looks down on the tax collector, while the tax collector humbly admits his sinfulness and asks for God’s mercy.

Jesus concludes the parable by saying, “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted” (Luke 18:14 NKJV).

Other Biblical References to Hypocrisy

Hypocrisy is not just a problem in the New Testament. In the book of James, the author warns against showing partiality to the rich while neglecting the poor. He writes, “But if you show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors.

For whoever shall keep the whole law, and yet stumble in one point, he is guilty of all” (James 2:9-10 NKJV). James emphasizes the importance of living out one’s faith through good works, rather than just paying lip service to it.

The book of Isaiah also condemns hypocrisy, particularly among those who claim to follow God but do not live up to his commands. In Isaiah 29:13, God says, “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me.”

The prophet Jeremiah also warns against the dangers of hypocrisy, saying, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9 NKJV).

The Danger of Hypocrisy in Christianity

Hypocrisy is a dangerous trap that can lead Christians away from the truth and into sin. When we put on a false appearance, we not only deceive others but also ourselves. We may think that we are living up to God’s standards, but in reality, we are far from them.

This can lead to a lack of authenticity in our faith, as well as a lack of integrity in our relationships.

Hypocrisy can also harm others. When we pretend to be something we’re not, we can lead others astray and cause them to stumble in their own faith. We can also cause harm to those who are marginalized or oppressed by showing partiality or neglecting their needs.

James warns against this, saying, “If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?” (James 2:15-16 NKJV).

The solution to hypocrisy is to live a life of authenticity and integrity. We must be honest with ourselves and with God about our shortcomings and weaknesses, and seek his forgiveness and guidance.

We must also be accountable to others in our faith community, being open and transparent about our struggles and seeking support and encouragement. As James writes, “Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed” (James 5:16 NKJV).

Conclusion

Hypocrisy is a serious issue in Christianity, one that is addressed throughout the Bible. It is a matter of deception and betrayal, and can lead us away from the truth and into sin.

Jesus consistently condemned hypocrisy, particularly among the religious leaders of his day, and warned his disciples to avoid their example. The solution to hypocrisy is to live a life of authenticity and integrity, seeking God’s forgiveness and guidance, and being accountable to others in our faith community.

As Christians, we must strive to live out our faith in a genuine and authentic way, not just putting on a show for others. We must seek to follow God’s commands with humility and sincerity, knowing that we are not perfect but trusting in his grace and mercy.

Let us heed the warning of Jesus and avoid the dangerous trap of hypocrisy, living a life that is pleasing to God and a witness to others.

Pastor Duke Taber
Pastor Duke Taber

Pastor Duke Taber

All articles have been written or reviewed by Pastor Duke Taber.
Pastor Duke Taber is an alumnus of Life Pacific University and Multnomah Biblical Seminary.
He has been in pastoral ministry since 1988.
Today he is the owner and managing editor of 3 successful Christian websites that support missionaries around the world.
He is currently starting a brand new church in Mesquite NV called Mesquite Worship Center, a Non-Denominational Spirit Filled Christian church in Mesquite Nevada.