What about all the Hypocrites in the Church?

Many of us can see a hypocrite a mile away. They seem to rise to the surface all too often and bring disgrace to the church and the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. There are many examples of people who have done terrible things in the name of God and have totally failed to reflect anything of God’s great love and grace in their life. This does not mean however, that the church or God himself condones this sort of attitude and behaviour. In fact the Bible has a great deal to say about hypocrites.

First of all, note that Jesus brought TRUTH and not hypocrisy. (John 1:17 and 14:6). Jesus did not tolerate the people who had spoiled the Temple and made it into a market (John 2:14-16). The Temple was for the worship of God, not for trading. On another occasion Jesus talked to a Samaritan woman about worship and told her that God wants true worshippers who will worship in truth (John 4:23-24). Clearly hypocrites cut no ice with God!

Secondly, Jesus criticised the Jews for diligently studying the scriptures but refusing to come to Jesus to receive eternal life (John 5:39-40). He went on to say, “but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in you.” (v.42). Jesus knows us too, so consider carefully who you are trying to impress. Is it the people in a church or are you living to please God.

Thirdly, consider the Jews who brought a woman who had been caught in the very act of adultery to Jesus (John 8:3-12). They wanted Jesus to say she should be stoned according to Old Testament law. However, Jesus highlighted their own sin and one by one they left. Jesus then declared that He is the light of the world, and whoever follows Him will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. Jesus knew and exposed their sin. He knows all about our sins too, whether open or secret. Hypocrites may fool some people around them but they never fool Jesus.

While there may be hypocrites attending church, even running church services, there will be no hypocrites in heaven. Make sure you confess your sins, and be honest before God. Do not be put off from having faith in God because of a few hypocritical rogues. Read the Bible for yourself and see the clear truth that Jesus taught. John’s gospel is an excellent place to begin.

Douglas Young