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Hypocrisy - A Horrible Evil
[Some of these passages describe what a hypocrite is like; some give examples that we can learn from. You may have to read the context, to gain a better understanding of what these passages are saying.]
What is hypocrisy? What is a hypocrite?
Write a definition for these words. (You may wish to start with a basic definition, and expand it after you have studied some of the characteristics given below.)
The hypocrite's spiritual condition and its effect on others:
- Their response to Jesus? Matthew 22:18; Mark 12:15; Luke 20:20
- Their response to the prophets (and others)? Matthew 23:29-34
These are just two of the ways. Be glad that they don't always go to this extreme!
- People who had begun to turn to Christ? 1 Timothy 4:1-2
- People who want to know about God? Matthew 23:13
- People who have become their "converts"? Matthew 23:15
What will happen to the hypocrite?
Hypocrisy is a self-deceiving trap. Most hypocrites live their lives claiming to be genuine and sincere people - and they probably even believe it is true! A person can become a habitual hypocrite, and not even know it!
If you are a hypocrite, you must allow the Word of God to open your eyes. Yet as a hypocrite, it is your nature to distort the Word of God, to replace it with man-made teachings, and to teach others to do the same! No wonder Jesus describes the habitual hypocrite as "blind" - Matthew 23:16+. Pray that God will have mercy on you. Pay attention to what God says in his Word - take it to heart. Perhaps God will take away your blindness!
Dennis Hinks © 2007
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