How Does Scripture Define a Hypocrite, and How Can We Avoid Acting Like One?

The fifth "woe" called out their mockery of tending to outward appearances only to gain approval while not cleansing and purifying their inner selves (Matthew 23:25-26). The sixth "woe" expands on that, comparing them to a whitewashed tomb, looking so nice on the outside but with rotten flesh inside (Matthew 23:27-28). Ouch!

The seventh and final "woe" claimed that the leaders didn't honor the prophets of history as they claimed but instead were just as guilty as those who killed and slaughtered massagers of God. Whoa!

Jesus certainly was not shy when calling out sinful and unrighteous behavior. Could you imagine being in that crowd and hearing this message? Talk about being left with a heavy heart. He is sharing how hypocrisy can ruin a city, which should also be a warning to us!

So, what does this all mean for us? It means that we must heed this valuable lesson from our Lord and realize that we can fall into hypocrisy if we are not mindful of our behaviors. Just as the Pharisees stood outside the synagogues in their flashy garments and lavishly adorning tassels, praying loudly for all to see and hear, we too can fall into the pattern of seeking to appear a certain way and "look good" to others, craving attention and approval from man, only to be far from God.

Matthew 6:1 warns us about practicing righteousness before others. Matthew 7:5 shares that we mustn't point out the log (sin) in a fellow brother's eye, failing to see the 2 x 4 in our own. Then, there is the notion that talk is cheap when we live an alternate life of sin (Matthew 15:7-8).

In other words, Jesus is commanding us to be intentional about our motives and check the state of our hearts as we live and walk by truth while stumbling into God's great mercy and grace (2 Corinthians 5:7, Matthew 5:16). 

Most, if not all, of us, have unfortunately demonstrated hypocrisy at some point. What might that look like? Here are a few signs or telltale indicators of hypocritical Christian behavior:

Let's face it: None of us wants to be called a hypocrite, much less become one. So, we must safeguard our hearts now and heed the warnings Jesus offers us in Scripture. We must also fight our flesh's inner turmoil and sinful ways. 

We must remember that we can always turn from our ways, choosing not to conform while seeking redemption (Romans 12:2). Here are a few ways to stand against hypocrisy.

Father God, we come before You, seeking Your mercy and grace. Please forgive us for succumbing to hypocrisy, entertaining our need for worldly validation and acceptance. Help our need to be seen and justified come from You alone. Please sanctify our hearts and help us walk humbly and in a manner that honors You. Amen.

Photo Credit: ©Canva Pro/by ismagilov from Getty Images

Alicia Searl is a devotional author, blogger, and speaker that is passionate about pouring out her heart and pointing ladies of all ages back to Jesus. She has an education background and master’s in literacy.  Her favorite people call her Mom, which is why much of her time is spent cheering them on at a softball game or dance class. She is married to her heartthrob (a tall, spiky-haired blond) who can whip up a mean latte. She sips that goodness while writing her heart on a page while her puppy licks her feet. Visit her website at aliciasearl.com and connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.