Are You a Pretender or a Defender? by Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 23:27 “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.”
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Introduction
The question posed to us today is straightforward yet profoundly convicting: Are you a pretender or a defender? This is not merely a rhetorical question but one that demands self-reflection and a sincere evaluation of our lives as followers of Christ. A pretender, as described in the Scriptures, is someone who outwardly appears righteous but inwardly harbors deceit, hypocrisy, and self-interest. On the other hand, a defender is one who faithfully stands for the truth, upholding the principles of God’s Kingdom regardless of opposition or personal cost.
Throughout history, God has called His people to be defenders of the faith. This call requires humility, courage, and unwavering commitment to God’s will. Pretenders, however, seek only to please men and their own desires, becoming tools of darkness and hindering the work of the Holy Spirit. This lesson aims to help us examine our spiritual standing and challenge us to walk in the truth, as defenders of God’s Kingdom.
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The Characteristics of a Pretender
Matthew 6:1 “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”
Pretenders are those who perform acts of faith for the approval of others rather than from a heart committed to God. They mask their true intentions with outward religiosity but inwardly live in rebellion against the Holy Spirit. Such individuals are often driven by pride and a desire for recognition rather than a genuine love for God.
Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, likening them to whitewashed tombs. Pretenders are dangerous because they mislead others, causing confusion and turning hearts away from God. They are often resistant to the truth and work in opposition to God’s purposes, even while claiming to represent Him.
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The Call to Be a Defender of the Faith
2 Timothy 1:13-14 “What you heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.”
Defenders of the faith are those who stand firmly on the Word of God, guided by the Holy Spirit. They do not waver in their commitment, even in the face of persecution or opposition. Daniel, the prophet, serves as a powerful example of a defender. Despite living in captivity, he remained steadfast in his devotion to God, choosing to face the lions rather than compromise his faith.
Defenders understand that their allegiance is to God above all else. They are willing to endure hardship, ridicule, and even death for the sake of the Gospel. Unlike pretenders, defenders live with integrity, reflecting the light of Christ in their words and actions.
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The Role of the Holy Spirit in Defending the Faith
John 14:26 “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”
The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in equipping believers to be defenders of the faith. He provides wisdom, discernment, and boldness to stand for the truth. Those who walk in the Spirit are able to discern between good and evil and are not easily deceived by the schemes of the enemy.
The Spirit also empowers us to overcome fear and doubt, enabling us to proclaim the Gospel with confidence. It is through the guidance of the Holy Spirit that defenders can remain steadfast in their faith, even in the most challenging circumstances.
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The Consequences of Pretending vs. Defending
Galatians 6:7-8 “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”
Pretenders face grave consequences for their hypocrisy. Their actions not only hinder their own spiritual growth but also lead others astray. God’s judgment is certain for those who live in rebellion and deceit. On the other hand, defenders of the faith are rewarded with God’s favor and eternal life. They bring glory to God through their unwavering commitment and inspire others to walk in truth.
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Summary
In every generation, God calls His people to choose whether they will be pretenders or defenders of the faith. Pretenders may deceive others for a time, but their hypocrisy is eventually exposed, and they face the judgment of God. Defenders, however, stand firm in the truth, guided by the Holy Spirit and motivated by a sincere love for God. They bring light to a dark world and fulfill God’s purposes.
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Conclusion
The choice between pretending and defending is one that every believer must make. Pretenders seek the approval of men, but defenders seek to please God. By walking in the Spirit and remaining faithful to God’s Word, we can be true defenders of the faith, bringing glory to His name.
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Call to Action
Reflect on your life and ask yourself whether you are a pretender or a defender. Commit to standing for the truth and being a light in the darkness. Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and dedicate yourself to living a life that honors God.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Be encouraged to remain steadfast in your faith. The road of a defender may be challenging, but the reward is eternal. God’s grace is sufficient, and His Spirit is with you. Stand firm and be counted among the faithful who boldly proclaim the Gospel.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come to You today, recognizing my need for Your grace and mercy. I confess my sins and ask for Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ is Your Son, who died for my sins and rose again. I invite Him into my heart as my Lord and Savior. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and guide me in the path of righteousness. Help me to be a defender of the faith and to live a life that honors You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
