Topical Encyclopedia The term "hypocritical" is derived from the Greek word "hypokrites," which originally referred to an actor or a stage player. In the biblical context, it denotes a person who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that they do not actually possess. The Bible frequently addresses the issue of hypocrisy, particularly in the context of religious practice and moral conduct.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the concept of hypocrisy is often linked with insincerity in worship and false piety. The prophets frequently condemned the Israelites for their hypocritical behavior, especially when their outward religious observances were not matched by genuine faith and obedience to God. Isaiah 29:13 states, "Therefore the Lord said: 'These people draw near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is but rules taught by men.'" New Testament Context The New Testament provides a more explicit critique of hypocrisy, particularly in the teachings of Jesus Christ. The Pharisees and scribes are often highlighted as examples of hypocritical behavior. Jesus rebuked them for their outward displays of piety that masked their inner corruption and lack of true righteousness. 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." Teachings of Jesus Jesus' teachings emphasize the importance of sincerity and integrity in one's relationship with God. He warns against performing religious acts for the sake of public approval rather than genuine devotion. In Matthew 6:1-2 , Jesus advises, "Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. So when you give to the needy, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. Truly I tell you, they already have their reward." Apostolic Writings The apostolic writings continue to address the issue of hypocrisy within the early Christian communities. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, urges believers to live authentically and to let their actions reflect their faith. In Romans 12:9 , Paul exhorts, "Love must be sincere. Detest what is evil; cling to what is good." Similarly, the Apostle Peter warns against hypocrisy in 1 Peter 2:1 , "Rid yourselves, therefore, of all malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander." Moral and Spiritual Implications Hypocrisy is seen as a grave moral failing because it involves deception and a lack of integrity. It undermines the credibility of one's witness to the faith and can lead others astray. The Bible calls believers to a life of authenticity, where their inner convictions align with their outward actions. This alignment is essential for true discipleship and effective ministry. Conclusion The biblical condemnation of hypocrisy serves as a call to self-examination and repentance. Believers are encouraged to cultivate a genuine relationship with God, characterized by honesty, humility, and a sincere commitment to living out the teachings of Christ. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (a.) of or pertaining to a hypocrite, or to hypocrisy; as, a hypocritical person; a hypocritical look; a hypocritical action.Strong's Hebrew 2611. chaneph -- profane, irreligious... hypocritical. From chaneph; soiled (ie With sin), impious -- hypocrite(-ical). see HEBREW chaneph. 2610, 2611. chaneph. 2612 . Strong's Numbers. /hebrew/2611.htm - 6k Library Hypocrisy Whether There are Various Species of Superstition? Bourdaloue -- the Passion of Christ Concerning Perseverance, and the Possibility of Falling from Grace ... Thou Shalt not Kill. On Being Filled with the Spirit How Herod Slew Sohemus and Mariamne and Afterward Alexandra and ... Profanations of Good and Truth John the Baptist An Exhortation to Love God Thesaurus Hypocritical (3 Occurrences)... (a.) of or pertaining to a hypocrite, or to hypocrisy; as, a hypocritical person; a hypocritical look; a hypocritical action. ...Hypocritical (3 Occurrences). ... /h/hypocritical.htm - 7k Hyprocrite Pretence (5 Occurrences) Unfeigned (5 Occurrences) Lie (291 Occurrences) Lying (203 Occurrences) Insincere (2 Occurrences) Insincerity (5 Occurrences) Fast (157 Occurrences) False. Resources Why are Christians so judgmental? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does it mean to have a seared conscience? | GotQuestions.org What is the significance of Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss? | GotQuestions.org Hypocritical: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Hypocritical (3 Occurrences)1 Timothy 4:2 Psalms 35:16 Isaiah 10:6 Subtopics Related Terms |
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