I actually had two thoughts bouncing around in my head this morning and thought I would use them both. But I was unsure how to tie them in together. As you will see, that was not necessary. Maybe I’ll do the other one tomorrow.
My first thought was after reading Matthew 23. I’d encourage you to stop right now and read that chapter. If this is an “on-the-go” devo reading, I’ll summarize it for you. It is what is called the “7 Woe” passage, where Jesus pronounces 7 woes against the Pharisees. He’s blunt. He minces no words. I have a sneaking suspicion He wasn’t smiling trying to soften the blow of His words. I also have this feeling He didn’t look at the sky and drop His eyes and look at His feet. No, I can picture Jesus with eyes boring right through the chests and into the depths of every Pharisee’s heart and soul as He spoke.
He had enough of their hypocrisy. Let’s clarify that: self-righteous hypocrisy. Hypocrisy is one thing; self-righteous hypocrisy is a whole ‘nother level. I think we are all hypocrites to some extent. I know I am. Why do I say that? Because not always does my walk back my talk! Yep, that’s me. Saying one thing but doing another. I recognize that and can honestly say I don’t do it maliciously or purposely. That is the sinful nature, the old man in me, who wants to still make an appearance.
Self-righteous hypocrisy is different. It is doing something then trying to cover it up with self-righteous talk. Religious talk. It is looking down on someone but not acknowledging my own sin. That is Matthew 23 in a nutshell. The Pharisees could not see their own sin because of the self-righteous log in their own eye. Jesus called them whitewashed tombs. They were tombs and monuments that looked good on the outside but were fill with dead man’s bones. There is more, but you get the point. Time to stop being a self-righteous hypocrite and put the cards on the table.
“Father, help me to be real-to You, to myself, to others. You see me as I am. Help me to stop pretending.”
I think you nailed the difference. –Those who want to put on the perception that they have it all together… That they have no faults… Ok, let’s call it what it is… SIN!
Then you have those that know that they struggle, that know others struggle, that are willing to accept those struggles in others while working toward living how God wants us to be in our own lives.
The real difference is recognizing that my need in Jesus is continuous. There will not likely be a day on this Earth that I will not struggle with my own self in some way.
Arrogance vs Humility
Very well said and very perceptive Ryan. As you state at the end: Arrogance vs humility
Today’s Pharisees is the Elite class in this country. They know what’s best for the little guy and don’t need to stoop to his level to wield their power and influence. Modern day hypocrisy to be sure.
And may we all, as Christ-followers, do God’s will with cheerful and humble hearts.
Blessings, Bill!
The Pharisees always think they know what is best for the little guy. After all, it either doesn’t affect them or does benefit them.
And you know EVERYONE looked up to the pharisees because they were the spiritual leaders of the day.
Thank God you’re not one of them Bill!
(Pharisee, not leader… I mean thank God that you aren’t a Pharisee!)
I think I better shut up before I get into trouble! 😛
I knew what you meant Ed…I think. No, seriously. I do. I’m trying hard not to be one I do know that!