The Gooch Lane church of Christ is a group of people in Madison, Alabama seeking to study the Bible and put God’s teachings into practice. We’d love to have you join us for Bible study and worship.
All in Hypocrisy
). Humility is a vital quality to receive the crown of life. Its bears the ability to overcome the pride of life by bringing one low- very low, in fact.
The apostle Paul wrote, “Do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that you will prove yourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life…” (Phil 2:14-16).
Other words for “grumbling or disputing” may be used. Paul is saying that Christians ought not to be constantly complaining, arguing, muttering, and fussing. These instructions come on the heels of some other significant points Paul is making. He has already told the hearers that they are to be of the same mind and intent, doing nothing from selfish ambition or empty conceit, but with humility of mind esteeming others as more important than self (vv. 2-4). He points to Jesus as the supreme example of this mentality, the One who, though God in the flesh, completely denies Himself and went to the cross for others (vv. 5-8).
Visiting Chinatown in New York City is an interesting experience. While some tourists are attracted to this neighborhood for the authentic cuisine, most visit to purchase brand-name merchandise. Oakley sunglasses, Rolex watches, and Coach purses are available at only a fraction of the cost; in fact, one could likely purchase one of each for under $100. There is only one problem; they are fake! Buyers are well aware that their purchases are cheap knockoffs of the original, which is part of the fun many have in their purchase. Still, owners of these brand names do not have the same level of enjoyment; the name and reputation they have worked hard to build are exploited and placed on something of inferior quality.
It is likely that each reader has been hurt by a hypocrite. It is also quite likely that each has played the hypocrite and hurt others. Hypocrisy’s English etymology springs from two parts – hypo and krei – which, when combined, mean to “under discriminate.” Its Greek origin comes from a word meaning to “answer a fellow-actor.” Together, these ideas demonstrate one whose false appearance results in using a lesser standard of judgment for self than for others. Therefore, Jesus warned about the dangers of playing the hypocrite: “You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye” (Matthew 7:5 ESV).
