Introductory Thoughts
The Bible points out that the hypocrite has forgotten God (Job 8:13). Therefore, the hypocrite shows little to no concern for receiving the praise of God. His natural desire to please God has instead been replaced with a desire to receive praise and glory from other men. This desire affects everything the hypocrite does. He gives, in hopes that others will admire his generosity (Matthew 6:2-4). He prays, hoping someone will notice the eloquence with which he calls upon God (Matthew 6:5-8). He fasts, but not in hopes of moving the Lord; rather, he wants others to marvel at the dedication with which he has devoted himself to God (Matthew 6:16-18).
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Some of the chief rulers believed that Jesus was the Son of God but would not say so because they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God and did not want to be put out of the synagogue (John 12:42-43).
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(For everyone): In Matthew chapter 6, the phrase they have their reward occurs three times (Matthew 6:2, 5, 16), each time speaking of hypocrites. What does it mean that the hypocrite already has his reward?
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Whom are you seeking to please? What does it suggest if you are seeking to please men (see Galatians 1:10)? What happens when you make it your goal to please men?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to make it your goal to please Him.
- Ask the Lord to show you the areas of hypocrisy in your life.
Song
BE THOU MY VISION
