Hypocrites will look for any opportunity to unmercifully criticize and judge others, while refusing to examine themselves honestly. Paul challenged the Corinthian church to, “Test [examine, NKJV] yourselves to see if you are in the faith” (2 Cor. 13:5). Jesus warned, “Do not judge lest you be judged” (Matt. 7:1). Then, in responding to those who would judge others, while ignoring themselves, Jesus said, “You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye” (Matt. 7:5; Jas. 4:11-12). Sadly, this hypocritical judging is often prompted by an effort to:
• Divert attention away from our own sins and shortcomings (John 12:1-6)
• Justify our own sinful lives and activities, while consoling a biting conscience (Rom. 2:1; 17-24)
• Build ourselves up at the expense of others (Luke 18:9-14; Luke 15:25-30)
• Disguise our envious and jealous hearts (3 John 9-11; 1 Pet. 2:1)
Hypocrisy discourages others in their efforts to serve God. Jesus encourages us in our efforts to serve God, by challenging us to “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt. 6:16). Yet, it is so easy, as God’s children, to be negatively influenced by others, causing us to get discouraged and lose our focus (Gal. 2:11-14).
Consequently, Jesus warns us, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy” (Luke 12:1; 17:1-2; Matt. 18:6). Too, he reminds us that Pharisees: (a) advocate a false concept of righteousness (Matt. 23:2-3), (b) practice a false concept of ministry (Matt. 23:4), and (c) adhere to a false concept of greatness (Matt. 23:5, 12). Therefore, let us not be negatively influenced by modern day Pharisees; nor, get discouraged in our efforts to do good (Gal. 6:9). Rather, let us resolve to do what we can to bring glory to God (Gal. 6:10; Mark 14:6-8; Col. 3:23), remembering it is the Lord whom we serve (Col. 3:24) and not man (Gal. 1:10).
God knows each of our hearts. Hypocrites cannot hide.