Expediency Of Taking A Closer Look At Christian Behavior By Unmasking Hypocrisy (OPINION)

By Isaac Asabor

There is no denying the fact that hypocrisy within Christian circles has long been a topic of debate and concern. While many devout Christians strive to live authentically, there are those who fall into the trap of hypocrisy. Given the foregoing, it is not an exaggeration to opine that delving into the signs of hypocrisy, exploring biblical perspectives, and shedding light on how Christians can navigate this complex issue would unarguably be insightful in this context.

For instance, hypocritical Christians often struggle to extend grace to others. They readily accept the grace Jesus offers them but hesitate to show the same kindness to fellow believers. Jesus himself emphasized forgiveness and compassion, yet hypocrisy blinds us to these essential virtues. As Matthew 7:3-5 reminds us, we must remove the plank from our own eye before pointing out the speck in someone else’s.

In fact, hypocrites wish everyone would conform to their own standards. Whether it is clothing choices, political views, or worship styles, they critique fellow Christians who do not align with their preferences. Against the foregoing view, it is important to say that diversity is a hallmark of Christianity, and that Romans 14:1-4 encourages us not to judge others based on non-essential matters. Given the foregoing, it is expedient for us to always celebrate our differences rather than imposing uniformity.

Without a doubt, hypocrisy often manifests when rules take precedence over relationships. While the Bible calls us to speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15), it does not endorse legalism. This is as hypocritical Christians become sticklers for rules, forgetting that genuine love and understanding matter more. To my view, we should not forget that Jesus prioritized relationships over rigid adherence to laws.

In a similar vein, it is germane to opine that external hypocrisy often stems from internal fear. Hypocrites fear revealing their true selves, their struggles, doubts, and imperfections. Galatians 2:11-13 recounts how even the apostle Peter fell into hypocrisy. He believed the gospel but failed to live consistently with its implications. Authenticity requires vulnerability, and Christians should create spaces where masks can be discarded.

Contextually viewed at this juncture, it is expedient to also opine that as Christians, we must confront hypocrisy within ourselves and our communities. Let us unmask the false personas, extend grace, embrace diversity, prioritize relationships, and foster authenticity. Only then can we truly live out the teachings of Jesus Christ and dispel the stereotype that all Christians are hypocrites.

In fact, it is pragmatic to remember in this context that the Church is not a stage for actors; rather, it is a sanctuary for imperfect souls seeking redemption and transformation.

Without any scintilla of hyperbole, it is expedient to add that the Bible tells us that a hypocrite is someone who puts on a mask and pretends to be something he is not. Without a doubt, hypocrisy is to claim to know and follow certain beliefs but to behave in a way that counteracts those beliefs. While we should have the wisdom to discern words and actions that do not match, we also need to remember that God is the ultimate judge of character.

Given the foregoing, little wonder the Bible is replete with verses and scriptures that are scripturally aim at guiding our own holiness; collectively and individually.

For instance, 1 John 4:20, says, “Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen”.

In a similar vein, God in 1 Peter 2:16, says, “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves”.

Still in a similar vein, God in Jeremiah 23:11, says, both prophet and priest are godless; even in my temple I find their wickedness”.  In fact, in Job 8:13, the Bible sensitizes people in the Christendom on the kind of evils that are usually meted out to hypocrites by saying “Such is the destiny of all who forget God; so perishes the hope of the godless”.

As if the foregoing scriptures are not reprimanding enough, God in Luke 6:46 apparently exhibited his resentment when he said, “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?”

Unarguably reminding double-dealers in the Christendom that their sins are not hidden, God in Luke 12:2 said, “There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known”. In fact, ostensibly to let hypocrites know that He is not unaware of their hypocritical lifestyles, God in Mark 7:6 said, “Isaiah was right when he prophesied about you hypocrites; as it is written: “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me”.

Be that as it may, it is germane to opine that given the fact that hypocrisy exists within the Christian community, and that it is essential to recognize that not all Christians are hypocrites, it is unarguably expedient to also opine that addressing hypocrisy within the church requires a collective effort.

Addressing hypocrisy within the church requires a collective effort, and doing that entails Christians to undergo an exercise of self-reflection, which requires each believer to examine his or her own heart and action. The reason for the foregoing view cannot be farfetched as honest self-reflection helps in identifying areas where such Christian falls short and need growth.

Also, there is need for the teaching of grace and humility in the church. To achieve the foregoing recommendation, church leaders should begin to emphasize grace more than ever before, even as it is also pragmatic to emphasize humility, and forgiveness. The reason cannot be farfetched as it is crystal clear that when we understand our own need for grace, we are more likely to extend it to others.

Also, there is the need for accountability in the Christendom. This can be achieved by church leaders by encouraging accountability among believers. Therefore, it can be asserted in this context that small groups or mentorship relationships are needed to provide a safe space for open dialogue and correction.

In a similar vein, there is need for everyone in the Christendom to eschew hypocritical lifestyles, and focus on Christ. This can be achieved by reminding ourselves that our faith is centered on Jesus Christ, not on human leaders. In fact, the foregoing view cannot be farfetched as it is undeniable that when we fix our eyes on Him, we are less likely to judge others harshly.

Also, there is no denying the fact that authenticity matters much in the Christendom. Therefore, it is incumbent on church leaders; individually or collectively, to encourage authenticity in worship and relationships. In fact, they should create an environment where people feel safe admitting their struggles and imperfections, particularly by always having it at the back of their minds that no church is perfect, but striving for genuine love and authenticity as they can help in combating hypocrisy.