A Help for Hypocrisy and Pretense — Olu Talabi — March 10, 2024
http://rlcf.church River of Life Christian Fellowship 1306 N Lincoln Avenue Loveland, Colorado - 80537, USA
Summary
The speaker emphasizes that one must live according to God's will rather than out of fear of what others might think or say. He draws lessons from Jesus's refusal to go to Judea when his brothers pressured him, highlighting that true obedience comes from listening to the Lord, not from external pressure. The message warns against hypocrisy, which is defined as outwardly appearing one way while inwardly being another, and encourages believers to be honest and true to God's calling.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Why did Jesus refuse His brothers' demands in John 7?Jesus was not moved out of fear or the desire to appease His brothers, but carefully sought to do only the Father's will.
Distinguishing true obedience from stubbornnessThe speaker clarifies that following God's will is not an excuse for stubbornness, as believers are called to submit to one another and edify others.
Beware of the leaven of the PhariseesLooking at Luke 11 and 12, Jesus warns against hypocrisy and pretense, speaking strong words because He genuinely loved the Pharisees and wanted them saved.
1. Everything hidden will eventually be revealedSince every secret thing and hidden pretense will one day come to light, there is no reason to live a life of hypocrisy.Luke 12:2
2. Fear God, not manBelievers should not be afraid of those who can only kill the body, but instead fear God, which biblically means hating evil and departing from sin.
3. Remember that God cares for you tremendouslyJust as God cares for insignificant sparrows, He cares deeply for His children, removing the need to cower or pretend for human approval.
4. Boldly confess Jesus before menRather than shrinking back in fear, believers must have the boldness to confess Jesus Christ specifically in every area of life.
The Holy Spirit will give you what to sayWhen brought before authorities or facing uncertain moments, believers should trust the Holy Spirit to give them the right words and actions.
Being what you are by the grace of GodLike the Apostle Paul, believers can rest in who God made them to be through His grace, eliminating the need to pretend.1 Peter 5:7
