Are We Playing the Hypocrite? (Part 1) | Bible Study | February 25, 2026
đź“„ Study Notes: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1dzbqdphkKM_MpoL-_ZVqxpPxsHfyl-B4/edit?usp=drive_link&ouid=100044156383217357442&rtpof=true&sd=true
✨ Short Summary / Outline
Pastor Phil begins a two‑part study on Jesus’ teaching about hypocrisy in Matthew 6. Using the attached notes, he explores why Jesus confronts religious hypocrisy so directly and how the motives of the heart shape our giving, praying, and fasting.
1. Why Hypocrisy Matters
The notes highlight that many avoid church because of hypocrisy, and Jesus addresses this sin repeatedly. As the document states, “Hypocrisy involves pretended devotion to God, empty worship, and the substitution of human authority for divine authority.” Jesus calls His followers to authenticity, not performance.
2. The Heart of the Matter Is the Matter of the Heart
Matthew 6:1 warns believers to examine motives: Are we seeking God’s glory or people’s applause? Jesus teaches that good works done for human praise receive only human reward.
3. Watch Your Motives When You Give (Matthew 6:1–4)
- Giving is assumed—“Whenever you give to the poor…”
- But giving must be done quietly, without fanfare or self‑promotion.
- The notes explain that hypocrites are “spiritual play‑actors,” wearing masks to appear righteous. Jesus calls His followers to sincerity, not performance.
4. Understanding the Word “Hypocrite”
The document traces the term to ancient theater—actors wearing masks to pretend to be someone they are not. Jesus uses this image to expose religious pretenders whose outward actions hide inward emptiness.
5. The Danger of Seeking Praise
Jesus warns that those who give, pray, or fast for attention “have their reward”—the applause of people, but nothing from the Father. True righteousness seeks God’s approval alone.
Application:
Jesus invites us to examine our motives, remove the masks, and practice our faith with humility, sincerity, and quiet devotion. Authentic worship flows from a heart aligned with God—not from a desire to be seen.
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