Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Nature Hypocrisy, in a biblical context, refers to the act of pretending to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that one does not actually possess. It is often associated with insincerity and deceit, where outward appearances are maintained to conceal true motives or character. The term is derived from the Greek word "hypokrisis," which originally referred to the act of playing a part on stage, thus highlighting the element of pretense. Biblical References and Teachings The Bible addresses hypocrisy extensively, particularly in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Hypocrisy is condemned as a serious moral failing, often associated with the Pharisees and religious leaders of the time, who were criticized for their outward displays of piety that masked inner corruption. 1. Jesus' Condemnation of Hypocrisy In the Gospels, Jesus frequently rebukes the Pharisees and scribes for their hypocritical behavior. In Matthew 23:27-28 , Jesus declares, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside, but on the inside are full of dead men’s bones and every kind of impurity. In the same way, on the outside you appear to be righteous, but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness." This passage underscores the contrast between external appearances and internal realities. 2. Warnings Against Hypocrisy Jesus warns His followers to avoid the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy (Luke 12:1). This metaphor suggests that hypocrisy, like leaven, can spread and corrupt the whole person or community if not addressed. 3. Hypocrisy in Worship and Prayer In Matthew 6:5 , Jesus instructs, "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their reward." Here, the focus is on the motive behind religious acts, emphasizing sincerity over public display. 4. Hypocrisy and Judgment The Bible also warns against the hypocrisy of judging others while ignoring one's own faults. In Matthew 7:3-5 , Jesus teaches, "Why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but fail to notice the beam in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while there is still a beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye." Consequences of Hypocrisy Hypocrisy is portrayed as a grave sin with serious consequences. It not only deceives others but also leads to self-deception and spiritual blindness. The hypocrite's actions are ultimately exposed, as seen in Luke 12:2 : "There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known." Call to Authenticity The biblical call is for authenticity and integrity in one's relationship with God and others. Believers are encouraged to live transparently, aligning their actions with their professed beliefs. James 1:22 exhorts, "Be doers of the word, and not hearers only. Otherwise, you are deceiving yourselves." Conclusion While the Bible offers stern warnings against hypocrisy, it also provides a path to repentance and genuine faith. By acknowledging one's own shortcomings and seeking God's grace, believers can overcome hypocrisy and cultivate a sincere and authentic walk with God. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (n.) Plural of Hypocrisy.Library Entire Sanctification as Taught by Peter. The Cardinal was Seated, -- He Rose as Moretti Appeared. ... V. ... The Way of Death. The Home-Parlor. The Judges Said: He Has Given Demonstration Enough of the Origin ... Until the Day Break and the Shadows Flee Away, Turn, My Beloved ... This He Thought a Principle at the Bottom of Nature When He was Living at Rome He Wrote a Treatise on the Preservation ... Entire Sanctification as Taught by James and Jude. Thesaurus Hypocrisies (1 Occurrence)...Hypocrisies (1 Occurrence). 1 Peter 2:1 Putting away therefore all wickedness, all deceit, hypocrisies, envies, and all evil speaking, (WEB KJV ASV DBY WBS YLT) ... /h/hypocrisies.htm - 6k Hypocrisy (11 Occurrences) Hymns (6 Occurrences) Guile (21 Occurrences) Evil-speakings (3 Occurrences) Envyings (3 Occurrences) Envies (2 Occurrences) Malice (24 Occurrences) Speakings (3 Occurrences) Slander (34 Occurrences) Resources Why are all Christians hypocrites? Are all Christians hypocrites? | GotQuestions.orgHypocrisies: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hypocrisies (1 Occurrence)1 Peter 2:1 Subtopics Related Terms |
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