THE DANGER OF HYPOCRISY AND PRIDE By Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 23:27-28
"Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity."
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Introduction
Hypocrisy and pride are among the greatest spiritual dangers that threaten believers and non-believers alike. Many people put on a false appearance of righteousness while indulging in sin and deceit. They desire admiration and worship from others, yet their hearts are far from God. This message is a warning against living in pretension and deception, for the Lord despises those who claim holiness but live in darkness. Those who refuse to repent will face divine judgment and eternal consequences. True righteousness comes from a humble heart submitted to God, not from outward appearances or self-exaltation.
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The Deception of Hypocrisy
Matthew 15:8 "This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me."
Many who claim to be followers of Christ live in pretension, putting on religious performances while their hearts are distant from God. Hypocrites deceive not only themselves but also those who follow them. Their influence leads others astray, causing them to stumble when the truth is revealed. Such deception is detestable in the eyes of God.
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The Judgment of the Hypocrites
Luke 12:1-2 "Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known."
God sees all things, and no amount of pretense can hide the truth from Him. Hypocrites may deceive others for a time, but eventually, their true nature is exposed. Their downfall is certain, and they will face divine judgment. Those who refuse to repent will suffer both in this life and in eternity, for God is not mocked.
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The Power of Pride
Proverbs 16:18 "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."
Pride leads many to destruction because they refuse correction and reject God's truth. They seek admiration and power rather than humility and righteousness. Such individuals view themselves as superior, demanding honor and praise from others. However, God resists the proud and brings them to ruin.
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The Fate of Those Who Reject the Truth
2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 "And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness."
Those who persist in hypocrisy and reject the truth will be handed over to delusion. They will embrace lies and be led further into darkness, resulting in their eternal condemnation. The choices they make in this life determine their destiny in the next.
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Summary
Hypocrisy and pride are deadly spiritual diseases that blind people to the truth and lead them to destruction. God despises those who put on a false display of righteousness while living in sin. Their deception not only leads them astray but also misguides others. True righteousness is found in humility and submission to God. Those who refuse to repent will face divine judgment, while those who seek God with sincerity will find His mercy.
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Conclusion
The Word of God is clear: those who live in hypocrisy and pride will be judged. No amount of pretense can hide one's true spiritual condition from God. Now is the time to examine our hearts, repent of any deception, and seek genuine righteousness. It is only through true humility and a sincere relationship with Christ that we can escape the fate of the hypocrites.
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Call to Action
If you have been living in hypocrisy, deceiving yourself and others, turn back to God today. Do not let pride and self-righteousness blind you to the truth. Repent and seek the Lord with all your heart. His mercy is available to those who humble themselves before Him.
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Final Word of Encouragement
God is calling His people to walk in truth and sincerity. Do not be swayed by the deceit of hypocrites. Hold fast to the Word of God, and let the Holy Spirit guide you in righteousness. No matter how deep in deception you have been, God is willing to forgive if you genuinely repent. Choose today to walk in the light of Christ and reject the darkness of pretension and pride.
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Prayer of Salvation
Heavenly Father, I come before You, acknowledging that I am a sinner in need of Your grace. I repent of my sins and turn away from hypocrisy and pride. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again so that I may have eternal life. I confess Jesus as my Lord and Savior, and I ask You to transform my heart. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and lead me in Your truth. Thank You for Your love and mercy. In Jesus' name, Amen.
