Hypocrisy - Next Step

Message Summary

Judas didn’t set out to betray Jesus. Series of small steps in the wrong direction and a heart issue led Judas to the place of betraying Jesus. In the end, Judas betrayed Jesus, showing that he was a hypocrite. He had outwardly pretended to be a follower of Jesus but inwardly, he was no friend of Jesus. Rather, he was self-centered and in it for himself. A hypocrite acts in contradiction to his or her stated beliefs or feelings. Yet, Judas was so convincing that he had almost all the Apostles fooled right up to the end.

Hypocrisy is a heart issue. When selfishness and deception gain ascendency in our being we get hypocrisy. And hypocrisy cripples our relationship to God—and to each other. But we can overcome by recommitting our entire being to Jesus Christ, renouncing deceptive thinking, talk and actions, and by trusting in the Holy Spirit to empower us to be honest, faithful and transparent followers of Jesus.

1) What is hypocrisy and why are we hypocritical?

2) What are some warning signs of hypocrisy that we can see in our lives?

Consider This

Transparency is the opposite of hypocrisy, and trust and faithfulness are essential to real relationships.

1) What can you learn about Judas’ character, motivation, and methodology according to John 12:3-6

2) Read Matthew 26:14-16. What did Judas want from the Religious leaders? What was he willing to give? What else do you think he wanted to gain

3) How do hypocrites use trust for their own ends? How can you detect hypocrisy in yourself or others? How?

4) Read Gal 2:11-14. Have you ever been tempted to alter your behavior to please your audience like Peter and Barnabas? What was wrong with what they did? What were the potential results

5) Have you ever criticized others and then realized you do the very same thing, maybe in a different way? Consider Matthew 7:1-5. Why is it sometimes so easy to judge others rather than show mercy?

6) Read Matthew 23:23-28. What was wrong with the Pharisees? (V 28) In what ways are believers today susceptible to the teaching of the Pharisees? (Matt 16:6)

7) According to Luke 22:3–6 and John 13:2, 27, Judas allowed demonic influences access to, and ultimately control over his life. Interestingly, Jesus had given all the Apostles, including Judas, authority over demons (Matt. 10:1).

a. How do we allow demonic influences into our lives today?

b. Can believers resist demonic influences (see James 4:7, 1 John 4:4)? How (see Ephesians 6:10-18)?

8) Read John 8:42-45 and Jeremiah 17:9. What (or who) is the ultimate source of lies, deception, and hypocrisy? Why are we susceptible to deception in our dealing with ourselves and others?

Moving Forward

Hypocritical people have an outward allegiance to Christ and want to be perceived as holy. But inside, they are self-centered and deceptive. They can be interested in a good cause, but for selfish reasons. Jesus said, “Follow Me!” (Matt 16:24). How can you reinforce your decision to be “all in” for Jesus and live transparently this week?

1) Are there some relationships that are just plain toxic—meaning despite professed friendship, like Judas, they intend to destroy your character and your spirituality?

a. What should you do according to 2 Timothy 3:1-5?

2) What behavior that betrays your relationship with Jesus will you ask God to help you change this week?

3) What measure can you take to build trust in one personal relationship this week?

4) Can wrong motives corrupt material giving? Read Matt 6:1-4 and discuss any wrong reasons for giving that you can think of. What practically can you do to remedy wrong motives?