The End of A Free America

 As we stand on the brink of what might be America's last free election cycle, it's crucial to confront some hard truths about global politics. The specter of nuclear war looms ominously over our heads, with tensions escalating in every corner—from Iran, Ukraine, and Russia to China and Taiwan. Let's be clear: a nuclear conflict is not a victory for anyone. Given today's intricate military alliances, it would result in catastrophic destruction for all involved parties and beyond.

So, where does this leave the power-hungry neocons and globalists? They are well aware that full-scale atomic warfare is an unwinnable scenario. Instead, they have turned their gaze towards a different form of warfare—terrorism. With our borders in crisis, millions of potentially dangerous elements are flooding into our country, wreaking havoc on our cities as an alternative to atomic war.

The harsh reality is that terrorism has become the only viable form of non-nuclear conflict that democracies can engage in without risking total destruction. This insidious strategy is being tested right now on populations deemed undesirable by those in power—the Ukrainians and Palestinians are facing nothing short of genocide.

It's time to wake up to these grim realities before they unfold within our borders. The stakes have never been higher; complacency is not an option when lives hang in the balance. We must demand accountability from those who play these deadly games with human lives as mere pawns on their geopolitical chessboard.

The brutal reality of modern warfare is starkly highlighted by the actions of Ukrainians and Israelis, where the deliberate targeting of civilians has become a central strategy rather than an unfortunate byproduct. This is not a mere oversight or collateral damage; it is a calculated approach entrenched in an ideology that seeks to eradicate populations under the guise of military conflict. The notion that civilian areas are bombed, not as mistakes but as intentional targets, underscores a chilling commitment to genocide.

This ideology does not discriminate based on religious affiliation or geographical boundaries. Lebanon, predominantly Christian yet geographically and politically entwined with these conflicts, finds itself trapped in this destructive agenda. The systematic nature of these attacks reveals an unsettling truth: genocide is woven into the very fabric of these operations. It's time to confront this grim reality with unwavering resolve and demand accountability from those who perpetrate such violence. The world cannot stand idly by while entire populations are decimated under strategic pretexts that mask true intentions.

A Call To Action

 

Repent and reclaim righteous leadership now! This is not a mere suggestion, but a call to action that each one of us must heed. The time for change is upon us, and it starts with our individual commitment to righteousness and our collective effort to restore our nation's soul.

America stands at a crossroads, embroiled in a spiritual war that threatens the very soul of our nation. 

Undeniably, we are losing ground to the evil forces that have taken root, ruling with an iron fist and leading us astray from our foundational values. We have broken God's commandments, disregarding His divine mercy and grace as if they were relics of a bygone era. In our relentless pursuit of power and wealth, we have allowed greed to overshadow morality, dismantling the ethical framework upon which this country was built.

This isn't just rhetoric; it's a stark reality that demands immediate action. Moral decay permeates every level of society as corruption festers within institutions once dedicated to serving people with integrity and honor. We must confront these evil forces head-on, recognizing their insidious influence over our lives and reclaiming the principles that once made America a beacon of hope.

It is time for us to awaken from complacency and take decisive steps toward restoration. We must hold ourselves accountable for allowing these destructive elements to flourish unchecked. By returning to faith-based values and emphasizing community over individual gain, we can begin to mend the torn fabric of our nation's morality.

The battle is fierce but not insurmountable—if we unite under shared convictions rooted in truth and righteousness. Let us not falter or succumb to despair; instead, let us rise with unwavering resolve to restore what has been lost and safeguard it for future generations. This spiritual war may be daunting, but together, in our unity, we can prevail against evil by standing firm in faith and action. Our unity is our strength, and it is the key to our victory.

Morning Prayer

 Morning Prayer is a powerful and essential part of starting the day with purpose and conviction. On 2/21/2022, let us stand firm in our faith and acknowledge the divine authority of our Father and God.

Our Father and God. We must recognize the restful night He has granted us, for He is indeed the Great Protector of His children. No deity is comparable to Him; He is the Rock of our Salvation, the Creator who provides for all our needs.

I bring my petitions before God, knowing He hears me. As a nation, we have strayed from His ways and chosen leaders who mock His commandments and persecute believers. Forgive us for our evil ways.

Despite claiming repentance, we continue in sin without actual change or humility. It is time to plead earnestly for mercy and forgiveness to move our hearts toward true repentance.

The current path leads towards inevitable conflict due to leaders who act as adversaries to justice and righteousness. We must demand their removal from power if they oppose divine principles. Let us pray fervently for a return to righteousness so that this nation may walk in holiness again.

We cannot ignore the plight of our Christian brothers and sisters facing danger daily; their safety must be at the forefront of our prayers as we ask for God's protective embrace over them.

Additionally, we are called to intercede on behalf of family and friends ensnared by deception. Pray that the Holy Spirit opens their eyes so they may recognize their errors and seek salvation through Christ.

Finally, as we face challenges today, let us embody forgiveness just as God Himself has forgiven us. Seek protection from temptation's lure, ensuring peace prevails within ourselves and those around us.

In unwavering faith through Jesus Christ's name—Amen.

Prayer For Family and Friends

 Our Father and my God, You are from everlasting to everlasting. You are the Alpha and Omega, the sole path to salvation and eternal life. As we witness the chaos enveloping our world and see Your prophecies unfold, we are acutely reminded of the brevity of time. The urgency of the situation compels us to pray fervently for our family and friends who wander in darkness, to be drawn into the magnificent light of salvation.

We must fervently pray for the Holy Spirit's convicting power over those family members who have strayed from salvation's embrace. There is no true conviction of sin without His divine advocacy. We must ask that the Holy Spirit pierce their conscience, unveiling their sins with clarity. This revelation should not merely discomfort them but catalyze a profound transformation in their lives. They must be convinced of their sinfulness and move towards repentance—this cannot happen unless illuminated by His holy light.

It is crucial that they are humbled; pride must be obliterated as it stands defiant against the Holy Spirit's influence. Let them understand that they inherently are sinners in dire need of redemption. No man can grasp the profound depth of his sinfulness until this divine illumination sheds light upon humanity's shadowed existence.

This is not a time for passive hope; it demands assertive prayer and unwavering faith in action. Let us believe in the transformative power of our prayers, for it is through them that hearts can be changed today!

Morning Prayer

 Our Father and my God, I praise You for Your mighty acts, according to Your excellent greatness. I thank You for the protection, mercy, and grace that You have given me. I am amazed at the love You have given me so that I can be called a child of God.

I pray this day that I accept Your will in my life and that You will be honored and glorified for the blessings You have given me.

Awaken those who call themselves Christian to the sanctity of marriage, the family, and the dignity of each human life. Open our ears to hear the cries of unborn children and to the truth that human rights begin at conception. Forgive our nation for the innocent blood that we have allowed to pollute the land by taking the unborn's life.

Father, I know You are the ruler of the universe, and You put into power whomsoever You will and set over us even the basest of men. The ruler's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water, You turn their heart in the direction of Your will. I know You have placed them there for a purpose. I humbly seek Your divine guidance to understand Your purpose and prepare my heart to do Your will.

As Nehemiah prayed for his nation, I pray for America. I beseech You, O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who preserves the covenant and lovingkindness for those who love Him and keep His commandments. Let Your ear now be attentive and Your eyes open to hear the prayer of Your servant, which I am praying before You now. I am confessing our sins and seeking Thy forgiveness on behalf of our nation. America has turned her back on the LORD and has gone the way of evil and iniquity. Our streets are filled with violence and chaos. Open our eyes to see our sinful ways, and may we humble ourselves before You and seek forgiveness.

I pray for our nation's leaders that they may see the error of their ways and seek forgiveness. I hold onto the hope that they will be granted wisdom and the courage to make the right choices. May they be moved by justice and mercy, leading us to live peaceful lives.

Bless this day with the comforting presence of Thy Holy Spirit, and may we follow Him in all ways. In the name of Jesus, Amen.

An Army of Four- Call to Action

 The story of the four leprous men in 2 Kings 7:3 is a powerful testament to the strength of decisive action in the face of adversity. These men, isolated and marginalized due to their condition, found themselves at a critical juncture—sitting at the gate, contemplating their grim fate. "Why sit we here until we die?" they asked one another, encapsulating a profound moment of clarity and determination. Here is their story.

2 Kings 7 is a powerful testament to faith and divine intervention, showcasing the triumph of prophecy over skepticism. Elisha boldly declared, "Listen to the message from the Lord!" His words promised an end to famine with an abundance of food in Samaria within a day—a claim met with doubt by the king's officer. Yet, Elisha confidently assured him that while he would witness this miracle, he would not partake in it.

As events unfolded, four lepers became unexpected heralds of salvation. Facing certain death by starvation or at enemy hands, they courageously ventured into the Aramean camp only to find it deserted. The Almighty had sown fear among their foes through illusory sounds of an approaching army, prompting a hasty retreat and leaving behind provisions aplenty.

The lepers' discovery was not just about survival; it was about sharing hope and redemption. Recognizing their moral duty amidst newfound wealth, they resolved to relay this good news back to Samaria. Their actions catalyzed a chain reaction that fulfilled Elisha's prophecy—demonstrating that faith can indeed move mountains when aligned with divine will.

This narrative is more than historical recounting; it's an assertive reminder that skepticism cannot withstand the power of unwavering belief and divine orchestration. It challenges us today: Are we ready to trust in promises beyond our understanding? Let 2 Kings 7 be your guide—faith rewarded not only with survival but also prosperity for those who dare believe.

Why sit we here and die?

This question is not just rhetorical; it is a call to action. It challenges us to confront our moments of stagnation and fear with courage and resolve. The leprous men realized that remaining passive would lead only to certain death, so they chose instead to move forward despite the uncertainty ahead.

Their decision led them into the camp of their enemies, where they discovered an unexpected miracle—the camp was deserted, leaving behind food and riches. This outcome underscores an essential truth: taking bold steps can lead to unforeseen opportunities and blessings when faced with dire circumstances.

In our own lives, we must heed this lesson. We cannot afford to remain paralyzed by fear or indecision. Like these four men, we must rise from our metaphorical gates and venture into new territories with confidence that action will yield results—even if not immediately visible or guaranteed. Embrace this assertive spirit when faced with your own challenges; do not simply wait for change but be the catalyst for it, empowering yourself and taking control of your destiny.

Imprecatory Prayer

 Imprecatory prayer, often misunderstood and controversial, is a potent tool for believers to seek divine justice against oppressors and wrongdoers. It is not a call for personal vengeance but an emotional plea for God's righteous intervention. The verses from Psalms 69:22-28 and 109:7-15 are stark reminders of the depth of human suffering and the desire for divine retribution against those who inflict pain upon the innocent.

These prayers articulate a raw honesty acknowledging the reality of evil. When we read, "Let their table before them become a snare," or "May his days be few; may another take his office," we acknowledge that there are times when justice seems elusive, prompting believers to seek God's decisive action. These prayers' intensity reflects desperation and faith—a belief that God will uphold justice even when human systems fail.

Rather than being dismissed as relics of ancient wrath, imprecatory prayers invite us to grapple with our own responses to injustice. They challenge us to confront our feelings honestly while entrusting ultimate judgment to God. In doing so, they underscore the urgency and importance of seeking justice in a world marred by sin and suffering. These prayers remind us that seeking justice is not only acceptable but crucial, and they underscore the importance of aligning our hearts with God's will while recognizing His sovereignty in dealing with those who perpetuate harm.

In embracing imprecatory prayer within its biblical context, we affirm our commitment to righteousness and compassion—seeking not just punishment for evildoers but also transformation through the profound and transformative power of divine grace. This grace has the power to change hearts and bring about repentance, offering hope in the face of injustice.

Our Father and my God, we are commanded to pray for our leaders so that they can govern us and lead us to peaceful lives. Since our leaders have turned from the commandments of our Holy and righteous LORD, I pray for divine justice upon these evil doers. Could you bring them to repentance?

Father, I ask that You expose their sin and show that they are guilty of evil and sinful ways. Even those who claim to be Christian show their hypocrisy. Make their term of office short and allow the righteous to fill their spot. Restore balance where trust has been betrayed. May their children suffer with those they have betrayed.

I am asking that those who financially support them lose their wealth, suffering with those who have lost their hard-earned possessions. I plead for justice. I desire these leaders to come to salvation, restore moral order, for truth to expose falsehoods, and for those who stray from righteousness to come to repentance.

Amen

Peace

Peace is not just a fleeting wish or a distant dream; it is an imperative that must be realized for the welfare of all humanity. We must actively pursue peace with unwavering determination, understanding its profound significance as the foundation upon which blessing, grace, and loving-kindness are built. To grant peace is to extend mercy and compassion to everyone, transcending borders and differences.

The world is in chaos. Humanity is on the brink of destruction from all the wars around the world. The only peace is found in thee, the Prince of Peace.

Our Father and my God, may the light of divine countenance shine upon us, offering the WORD of life—a beacon of hope that guides us toward salvation and harmony. Through this light, we find the strength to cultivate blessing, mercy, life, and peace. We must not wait passively for peace to descend upon us; instead, we must work tirelessly to create it in our own hearts, our families, our communities, and beyond. May we be peacemakers, that the world sees us as the Children of God?

Let us commit ourselves to this noble endeavor—may it please You to bless Your people at all times and every hour with Your peace. Let this be our prayerful mandate: Amen. 

The End of Life

 The end of life is an inevitable reality we all must face, and confronting it head-on requires courage and resilience. At 76 years old, having surpassed the average life expectancy of 74.8 years, I stand at a juncture where reflection and acceptance intertwine. Only yesterday, I was twenty—full of vitality, with no pain or chronic illness hindering my path. Those days were marked by endless possibilities and dreams waiting to be realized.

Today, my existence is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure amidst adversity. The Psalmist writes that the days of our years are threescore years and ten, and if because of strength, they are fourscore years, their strength is labor and sorrow, for it is soon cut off, and we fly away. This is human existence, life, and death.

 Daily pain has become a constant companion; diabetes affects my blood sugar levels, while poor eyesight blurs the world around me. My feet have lost their sensation, essential tremors shake my hands, kidney failure tests my body's limits, cancer has invaded my bloodstream, and chronic asthma makes every breath a conscious effort.

Yet despite these formidable challenges, there is an undeniable strength in acknowledging this phase of life with clarity and resolve. Recognizing the physical ailments and embracing each remaining moment with purpose and dignity is crucial. The end of life isn't merely about succumbing to ailments; it's about cherishing memories made along the way and finding peace in what lies ahead.

The end of life is a profound journey that can often leave us feeling battle-weary. The term "battle weary" originated from soldiers who have been on the battlefield too long and are exhausted by the relentless demands of warfare. Similarly, "battle fatigue" or "combat fatigue" manifests as depression, anxiety, and a loss of motivation due to the unyielding stress of active warfare. As Christians, we, too, can experience this weariness in our spiritual battles.

We are soldiers in the army of Christ (Ephesians 6:10-17), called to stand firm and fight for righteousness. Many have been on the frontlines for years, fighting for family members, friends, or other pressing issues. This continuous engagement can lead to spiritual exhaustion akin to combat fatigue.

But let us be clear: being battle-weary does not equate to defeat. It is a call to reassess our strategies and seek renewal through faith. We must remember that our strength comes from God's mighty power and that we are equipped with His armor for these challenges. We must acknowledge our weariness but refuse to succumb to it; instead, let it drive us closer to God's sustaining grace.

In these moments of fatigue, lean into your community of believers for support and encouragement. Take time for rest and reflection as you renew your spirit through prayer and scripture. Remember that even when weary, you remain a vital part of Christ's army—stronger together as we press forward with unwavering determination toward victory in His name.

Sunday Sermon- Hypocrites

 This past week, I have read about the war between Israel and Iran and the war in Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, and Ukraine. I have seen news reports of the devastation the hurricane has caused in the southern states. I have read reports of bank failures and people unable to get their money from their accounts. What is happening in and around the world is nothing short of chaos.

As secular news media reports that the world teeters on the brink of nuclear war, it is alarming how unprepared and indifferent Americans remain. Government whistleblowers have sounded the alarm, urging citizens to stockpile at least three to four months of food and water. Yet, despite these warnings, fear seems to grip every nation except ours.

This complacency is not just a matter of physical preparedness; it reflects a more profound spiritual indifference. We are unconcerned about global turmoil, unmoved by threats that could soon reach our streets and indifferent to the spiritual conflict engulfing us all. The lack of spiritual discernment in recognizing that Satan and his forces are hastening the fulfillment of end-time prophecies is staggering.

Now is not the time for apathy or ignorance. Americans must awaken from this slumber and confront physical and spiritual realities with urgency and clarity. The stakes could not be higher; we must act decisively before it's too late.

In these tumultuous times, addressing the unsettling reality that many are unprepared for the disaster unfolding within the Church is crucial. As someone who has been in the ministry for over fifty years, I have witnessed firsthand how the devil insidiously works to destroy the faith of many good people. Regardless of your beliefs about God or the Church, it is undeniable that hypocrisy is inflicting deep wounds on the very foundation of our spiritual communities.

People are leaving churches in droves, disillusioned by experiences that have led them to believe all Christians are hypocrites. This exodus is not merely a consequence of personal grievances but a strategic move by Satan himself. In these last days, he cunningly uses Christians as instruments to dismantle the faith of their fellow believers.

I often hear Christians boast about their ability to discern spirits, yet ironically, they fail to recognize how their lack of proper discernment plays into Satan's hands. This blind spot allows him to manipulate and sow discord among us, turning us against one another and weakening our collective faith.

It is time for us to wake up and confront this spiritual crisis head-on. We must sharpen our discernment and stand united against these destructive forces threatening our community from within. Only then can we hope to restore faith and integrity within our churches and fortify ourselves against further attacks on our beliefs.

The Church's most incredible hypocrisy lies in its selective approach to forgiveness. While forgiveness is heralded as the cornerstone of salvation, preached from the pulpit as a divine mandate, the practice often falls short within the walls that advocate it. The doctrine clearly states that we are forgiven for our sins and are expected to extend this grace to others. Yet, how often do we see grudges held and judgment cast among those who claim to embody these teachings?

This inconsistency not only undermines the Church's credibility but also dilutes the power of its message. Forgiveness should not be conditional or reserved for those who fit a particular mold; it must be an unwavering principle applied universally. If we truly believe in the transformative power of forgiveness as our faith teaches, then we must live by example—without exception or excuse.

The time has come for introspection and action. Religious communities must align their practices with their teachings and demonstrate true forgiveness in every interaction. Anything less is not just hypocrisy; it's a betrayal of one of Christianity's most profound tenets. Let us commit to embodying genuine forgiveness and thereby upholding the integrity of our faith.

Then Peter came to him and said, Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Till seven times?  Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

If my math is correct, seven times 70 is 490 times. If I do not forgive, then God will not forgive me. So, if you have unforgiven issues in your life and refuse to reconcile with the offending party, do not call yourself a Christian.

JESUS SAIDl:

Ye have heard that it was said of them of old time, Thou shalt not kill, and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, (worthless) shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

To understand the significance of Jesus' words in Matthew 5:22, we need to contextualize them with the preceding verse.

You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell" (Matthew 5:21-22 NIV)

Jesus reminds his audience of the sixth commandment, "You shall not murder" (Exodus 20:13), but then he goes on to explain the law's true significance—a deeper, spiritual meaning they had never seen.

First, Jesus warns that the very act of murder finds its roots in an angry, murderous spirit: "But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment" (Matthew 5:22a). God, who examines the very thoughts and intents of the heart, will issue judgment upon unrighteous anger. Next, Jesus warns against name-calling, using "raca" as an example (verse 22b).

Raca comes from the Aramaic term reqa. It was a derogatory expression meaning "empty-headed," insinuating a person's stupidity or inferiority. It was an offensive name used to show utter contempt for another person. Jesus warned that the use of such a word to describe someone was tantamount to murder and deserving of the severest punishment of the law.

Jesus then issues a third warning against those who call someone a "fool" (verse 22c). Murder begins in the heart, and epithets such as "raca" and "fool" are signs that there is hatred lurking within. The hatred that causes one person to hurl insults is the same hatred that causes another to commit murder. The attitude of the heart is the same, and it's this attitude that makes a person morally guilty before God. Jesus not only warns us against expressing unrighteous anger, which can lead to murder but commands that disparaging denunciations and name-calling be avoided. Such abusive words reveal the true intents of one's heart and mind for which we will be held in judgment: "I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve" (Jeremiah 17:10 NIV).

Can you not see the level at which Jesus has addressed unresolved issues? He has placed them in the same commandment as "thou shall not kill."

He did not say if you have ought against your brother; if you remember, your brother is against you. Don't tell me you don't know when someone is upset with you. You know, it is your responsibility to go to that person and make things right.  

God will not bless you until you have been reconciled with the offended party.

Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

But if he does not hear thee, take with thee one or two more, that every word may be established in the mouth of two or three witnesses.

And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the Church: but if he neglects to listen to the Church, let him be unto thee as a heathen man and a publican.

As a professed Christian, you must make things right. We live in a time of entitlement, where people feel they have the right to mistreat others. Unfortunately, this attitude has infiltrated the very heart of our faith communities. Of all places, the body of Christ should be a sanctuary of forgiveness, compassion, mercy, and love.

Yet we see a glaring double standard: We expect others to follow Jesus' teachings while we fall short. This hypocrisy is a major flaw driving people away from the Church. Numerous individuals have left or refused to attend because of unresolved issues and hurtful experiences within their congregations.

This must change. We cannot preach about love and grace on Sunday while ignoring or mistreating our brothers and sisters throughout the week. The time for action is now—we must take responsibility for creating an environment that truly reflects Christ's teachings. We must address these personal issues with urgency and sincerity if we are serious about our faith. Can we hope to rebuild trust and foster genuine community within our churches?

It's time for self-reflection and accountability. We must embody Jesus's teachings daily to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. Let us strive to eliminate this double standard among Christians by practicing what we preach—true forgiveness, genuine compassion, unwavering mercy, and unconditional love.

Jesus was frequently frustrated by religious leaders and others who claimed to love God but treated others poorly. This hypocrisy is not just a minor flaw; it's a fundamental betrayal of what it means to follow Christ. What does hypocrite mean in the Bible, then? In biblical terms, a hypocrite is akin to an actor who puts on different masks, pretending to be something they are not. Many religious people believe you need to don a mask to fit in at Church or be good enough for God. However, Jesus condemned this behavior unequivocally.

In Jesus' terms, hypocrites are people who put on masks not to do the right things but to present the right things. They are more concerned with outward appearances than genuine faith and actions. This double standard is dangerous because it distorts the valid message of Christianity: love, compassion, and integrity.

It's time for Christians to remove these masks and live authentically according to their faith. Hypocrisy damages one's spiritual journey and tarnishes the image of Christianity as a whole. Let us strive for authenticity and align our actions with our proclaimed beliefs—only then can we truly honor God and serve others as Jesus intended.

Here are some thoughts that you might be a hypocrite:

1. If you struggle to give grace to others 

Hypocrisy drives us to assume the worst of others, zeroing in on their flaws and depleting their patience. Hypocrites are more than willing to accept the grace Jesus gives them, but when challenged to extend the same grace to others, they bristle.  

2. If you wish people would act just like you

Sometimes, other people do things we disagree with. Our tolerance to these differences can be a crucial indicator of hypocritical thinking. A hypocritical Christian will find themselves picking apart the way other Christians dress, vote, or worship, for example – and wishing they'd see things their way instead. 

3. If you focus on rules first, relationships second 

There's a time and place to encourage someone to a better way of living. The Bible encourages us to speak the truth to others in love (Ephesians 4:15). However, nothing is loving about being a stickler for the rules. If someone is quicker to call out others' mistakes than they are to learn they criticize, that's a red flag that hypocrisy influences how they treat people. Their true self is under wraps. 

A lot of the time, external hypocrisy results from internal fear. Hypocritical people don't want others to know the real them—the thoughts they're ashamed of, the habits they can't shake, the daily mistakes—because they fear how others will respond. They've worked so hard to play the role of the perfect Christian that they can't imagine what people would think if they knew what was happening inside. 

How to deal with hypocrites 

Seeing hypocritical behavior in a church environment can be incredibly frustrating and discouraging, especially when people seem to be leaving in droves because they've been hurt by it. So, what's the best way to respond when we see hypocrisy in others? 

• Don't let anger steer the ship. If you feel strongly about hypocrisy, it's easy for anger to bubble up when you see others behaving in such a way. The Bible reminds us how crucial it is to control our rage (Ecclesiastes 7:9), especially in how we interact with others.  
• Check your own heart and behaviors first. As uncomfortable as it may be to admit, you might've shown hypocrisy at some point in your life. Make an honest evaluation of your thoughts and behaviors before you start calling out someone else's - or as Jesus puts it, "Get rid of the log in your eye. Then you will see well enough to remove the speck from your friend's eye." (Matthew 7:5) 
• Don't let your conviction outpace your compassion. Hypocritical Christians aren't an entirely different species – they're people, just like you and me, with real feelings and experiences that have shaped who they are. Even if you've seen someone behave insensitively toward others, that doesn't give you license to treat them the same way. Remember to "speak the truth in love," as Ephesians 4:15 reminds us.  

The Church's most incredible hypocrisy is in the area of forgiveness. Forgiveness is the foundational doctrine of salvation, yet it is precisely where many Christians falter. We proclaim that a merciful God has forgiven us our sins, yet too often, we withhold that same mercy from others. This double standard among Christians is not only contradictory but also damaging to the very fabric of our faith community.

Forgiveness should be a non-negotiable principle for anyone who claims to follow Christ. It's not just a lofty ideal; it's a mandate directly from Jesus himself. We are called to forgive others for their sins against us, just as we have been forgiven of our transgressions. Anything less undermines the authenticity of our faith and tarnishes the Church's witness in the world.

It's time to confront this hypocrisy head-on. Let us embrace forgiveness fully and consistently, embodying the grace so generously extended to us. Only then can we truly live out the essence of Christianity and offer a genuine example for others to follow.

I would ask you to humble yourself and go and be reconciled with those who are offended and crush the power of Satan to destroy the works of the LORD.