Topical Bible: Thankfulness of Hypocrites, Full of Boasting

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The concept of thankfulness is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, often associated with genuine gratitude towards God for His blessings and grace. However, Scripture also addresses the thankfulness of hypocrites, which is characterized by insincerity and self-exaltation. This form of thankfulness is not rooted in a true appreciation of God's goodness but is instead full of boasting and self-righteousness.

Biblical Examples and Warnings

The Bible provides several examples and warnings against hypocritical thankfulness. In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector to illustrate the dangers of self-righteousness and false gratitude. The Pharisee, standing by himself, prays: "God, I thank You that I am not like the other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector" (Luke 18:11). Here, the Pharisee's thankfulness is not directed towards God's mercy or grace but is instead a boastful comparison to others, revealing a heart full of pride and hypocrisy.

The Apostle Paul also warns against such attitudes in his epistles. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, he describes the characteristics of people in the last days, noting that they will be "lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy" . This passage highlights the connection between boastfulness and a lack of true gratitude, as those who are self-centered and arrogant are incapable of genuine thankfulness.

Characteristics of Hypocritical Thankfulness

1. Self-Exaltation: Hypocritical thankfulness often involves elevating oneself above others. This is evident in the Pharisee's prayer, where he thanks God not for His mercy but for his own perceived superiority over others.

2. Lack of Genuine Gratitude: True thankfulness acknowledges God's sovereignty and grace. In contrast, hypocritical thankfulness is superficial and fails to recognize God's role in one's life, focusing instead on personal achievements and status.

3. Boasting: The thankfulness of hypocrites is frequently accompanied by boasting. This is a direct violation of the biblical exhortation to humility, as seen in James 4:6, "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble" .

4. Insincerity: Hypocritical thankfulness is marked by insincerity, as it is often a facade to gain approval or admiration from others. Jesus warns against this in Matthew 6:1-2, advising believers to practice their righteousness in secret rather than for public recognition.

Theological Implications

The thankfulness of hypocrites serves as a cautionary example for believers. It underscores the importance of examining one's heart and motives when expressing gratitude. True thankfulness is a reflection of a humble and contrite heart, recognizing God's grace and mercy. It is an essential aspect of a believer's relationship with God, as it fosters a spirit of worship and dependence on Him.

In contrast, hypocritical thankfulness is a manifestation of pride and self-reliance, which ultimately distances individuals from God. The Bible consistently calls believers to cultivate a heart of genuine gratitude, free from boasting and hypocrisy, as an expression of their faith and devotion to God.

Nave's Topical Index

Luke 18:11
The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank you, that I am not as other men are, extortionists, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.
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Library

The Pharisee and the Publican
... truly kind, compassionate, liberal, and full of love ... his thankfulness, and therefore
his thankfulness was grounded ... 1. That the Pharisees and hypocrites do not ...
/.../bunyan/the pharisee and publican/the pharisee and the publican.htm

A Discourse Upon the Pharisee and the Publican
... truly kind, compassionate, liberal, and full of love ... of his thankfulness, and therefore
his thankfulness was grounded ... That the Pharisees and hypocrites, do not ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse upon the pharisee.htm