True Through and Through (Luke 12:1-3) HYPOCRISY

Jesus began to speak first to His disciples, saying: “Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. – Luke 12:1b-2

A hypocrite is not genuine but is play-acting. | WATCH ON YOUTUBE

Jesus has been teaching the crowds many things. As He continued in the general direction towards Jerusalem, vast multitudes came to hear Him. The crowds were so large that some were injured because they trampled on one another. And Jesus began speaking to His disciples to warn them against the great danger of hypocrisy. 

The basis of hypocrisy is insincerity. God would much rather have a blunt and honest sinner than someone who puts on an act of goodness. Repentance in a state of hypocrisy is impossible. If one does not even realize that he is sinning, then how can there be repentance? God does not shut him out, but by his repeated refusal the sinner shuts himself out. 

Jesus likened hypocrisy to leaven. It takes only a little bit to affect a great mass, it spreads, swells and sours the whole meal. If we are insincere in one area it soon spreads to the rest of life. 

The temptation to hypocrisy is often strongest to those who enjoy some measure of outward success. In light of their growing popularity, it was especially important for the disciples to remember this. The solution to avoid hypocrisy, however, is not that we never aspire to a higher standard. But that we aspire, yet be honest about our difficulty in fulfilling that standard.  

How honest and transparent is your life?

Lord, help me be a true person on the inside, I pray.

Extended Reading – Luke 12-13

Read through the Bible in One Year: CLICK HERE

Links to Related Resources
Bible Gateway | Enduring Word | Bible Study Fellowship | FRMS YouVersion Plans