Hypocrites

Yesterday, we discussed whether certain activities, places, or artifacts were sacred or holy. I didn’t give answers but intended to cause people to consider what they think is sacred. Why? Well, let’s take a look at how Jesus answered the synagogue leader’s reaction to yesterday’s passage.

Remember that yesterday Jesus healed a woman who had been crippled for eighteen years in the synagogue on the Sabbath. The Sabbath was sacred or holy, and the Jews were not to work on the Sabbath. There were significant restrictions on what they could do on the Sabbath.

Jesus’ answer to synagogue leader’s outburst against people coming to be healed on the Sabbath is immediate and harsh. Why? He spoke the truth. He wanted to grab their attention. They were being hypocrites, holding a double standard. Though the Jews could only walk a specific number of steps on the Sabbath without it being considered work, they would lead their work animals to water. Typically, wells or streams were outside the towns of Galilee requiring them to walk further than allowed on the Sabbath.

What are the double standards we see today? How are we being hypocritical? Are we being hypocritical? As I observe the behavior of people, I see hypocritical behavior regularly. It’s alright if I commit my favorite sin but it’s not alright for someone else to commit theirs. I’m struggling with mine and praying about it but I don’t consider they are doing the same.

If we are going to call out someone else, we need to do so with love. We might consider confessing our own sin before we mention their sin, then agree with them to help one another overcome them. Rather than thinking we should impose rules on others, we might consider partnering with them for accountability. It will amaze us how well it works.

I pray we all recognize our own sin. I pray we approach others with love to discuss their sin. I pray each one of us with give up our hypocritical behavior and seek loving accountability instead. Recognize your sin. Do not be hypocritical. Seek an accountability partner.

Luke 13:15 But the Lord answered him and said, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger and lead it to water?”