Justice for All

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""Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites!  You give a tenth of your spices - mint, dill and cummin.  But you have neglected the more important matters of the law - justice, mercy and faithfulness.  You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former."" - Matthew 23:23

  Hypocrisy is as big of a criticism in today's church as it was in AD 30. How many people have judged the church based on the perceived hypocrisy of the leadership and ministers of the church? I can personally think of half a dozen individuals that I know who have left the church and have a diminished perspective of Christianity based on the hypocritical behavior of clergy. These individuals hold a position which is viewed by many in a hierarchy as closer to God. Whether we like it or not people are looking at those in Christian leadership as living examples of Jesus Christ. When their humanity and imperfections show through, it fuels the opinion that the church is full of hypocrites.

 

  What is often times overlooked is that the Christian church is made up of sinners. Every one of us, from the least to the greatest have sinned and will continue to sin. People looking on from the jury box expect to see perfection but don't understand that it is impossible. This isn't new, as shown in Matthew 23:23, the leaders of the church at that time fell well short of the expectations of God. On the surface they put on the show and do what is required by the protocol of the religious culture, yet still have neglected the principles on loving.Recall Jesus comments to those who were prepared to stone the woman caught in adultery, "He who is without sin among you, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." (John 8:7)  Who among you is capable of condemning a member of the Christian church without first inspecting your own unrighteousness.

  This scripture also gives us a solid perspective of the values Christ places on justice, mercy and faithfulness as important matters. These guidelines for the Christian life are foundational and essential. The law is also important - tithing, 10 Commandments, pay taxes, etc., but not as important as the principles of loving grace. This scripture is applicable in your daily walk with Christ. Loving others, helping others and reach to God in faithfulness is what Christ is asking us to do.

  So, quit looking at the clergy as the one's with the responsibility of carrying the image of Christ and look into the mirror. Yes, the mirror. You can carry Christ through your actions every single day. Others will look at you and wonder what you have and how you remain so optimistic and positive. This becomes a living example of Christ worthy of His name. Refrain as much as possible from giving them examples of hypocrisy in your walk. Be clear to explain that we are all sinners and thereby need the salvation of Jesus Christ death, resurrection and ascension for eternal life.
             

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