I think it interesting that three times in chapter six, Jesus uses the word “hypocrite.” Between verses two and sixteen—a span of fifteen verses—this word pops up three times.
I can tell you that if someone repeats a word to me in a short span of time, I pick up on it.
Dictionary.com defines hypocrite as “a person who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that he or she does not actually possess, especially a person whose actions belie stated beliefs.”
We get that; we have seen it. But what is behind the word is interesting. A “hypocrite” was actually a mask used in Greek theater. The mask was larger than life, and in many cases had a megaphone built into it, so the actor behind the mask could project her or his voice in such a way that the audience could better hear it.
When you think about it, a “hypocrite” is actually “a face that is not my own.”
We’ve all heard people excuse themselves from a church, saying that “those people are all hypocrites!” And, you know, too often they are spot on.
Even about me. I put on my Sunday best, tie a bow tie (now you know who this is!), and project—at least I hope I do—an image of faith and integrity. But then I give free reign to my road rage on the way home, I say snarky things about people, I allow my values to be shaped by advertising and not Scripture, and so my life unravels. I am a hypocrite. I show the world a face that is not my own.
The difference—at least I hope—is that I roll out of bed the next morning, and do my best to confess my transgressions, and beg God to fill me with His Spirit (not my own!) and help me to live and serve Him better.
And y’know? I know many of you well enough to know that you do the same.