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Gospel of Mark
In Jesus’ day, some religious leaders claimed to love the Lord, but lived in ways that weren’t loving. They claimed to know the Lord, but lived in ways that weren’t compassionate. They claimed to follow the Lord, but lived in ways that weren’t merciful.
Hypocrisy, at its worst.
Jesus hated hypocrisy. He called it out every time he encountered it. And he warned against it at every chance.
Following Jesus means living like Jesus.
Following Jesus means loving like Jesus.
Following Jesus means learning about Jesus.
Following Jesus means that our actions should match our words should match our thoughts should match our attitudes (see more about that in the rest of Mark chapter 12).
Jesus calls out hypocrisy back to back in Mark 12, first by telling a parable, then by giving an object lesson.
Both times, the guilty hypocrites knew he was talking about them. Both times, they failed to learn their lesson and change their hearts.
Followers of Jesus must always be on the lookout for hypocrisy in their own hearts and minds. We must ask Jesus to reveal it to us. We must be honest about what he shows us. And we must let him work inside us to transform us into people who are faithful followers, not half-hearted hypocrites.
Mark 12:1-27
It’s easy to spot hypocrisy in others. It’s harder to see and admit it in ourselves.
General Reflection:
Psalm 118:22-23
Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007, 2103 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.
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