Matthew 7:3–5: And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.
Sometimes we are so sure of ourselves that we fail to examine our hearts honestly and thoroughly. Sometimes we get so wrapped up in self-examination that we become unbalanced. But we should not look only at ourselves, or we will become discouraged and defeated. We should look by faith to Jesus Christ and let Him forgive and restore us. Satan is the accuser, and he enjoys it when we accuse and condemn ourselves! After we have judged ourselves honestly before God, and have removed those things that blind us, then we can help others and properly judge their works. But if we know there are sins in our lives, and we try to help others, we are hypocrites. In fact, it is possible for ministry to be a device to cover up sin! The Pharisees were guilty of this, and Jesus denounced them for it. 1
Your Word is Truth
Read James 1:22-25 to better understand how to see more clearly.
But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ. –Ephesians 4:15
You Alone are God
Let the Word of God and Spirit of God grow you up as a servant of God. – TWEET IT
Your Will be Done
Lord, thank You for teaching me how to avoid hypocrisy.
1. Hughes, R. K. (2001). The sermon on the mount: the message of the kingdom. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
