All posts by : Bible Call

We begin our series, “Hypocrites in Church? Jesus Explains” with the Parable of the Sower, as narrated by Jesus in Matthew 13:1–9 and explained to His disciples in verses 18–23. In the agricultural context of Jesus’ time, seeds were initially dispersed before being ploughed into the ground. Jesus’ Parable of the Sower illustrates the various responses to the Gospel.

The Parable of the Sower

Jesus tells the story of a sower who scatters seeds on different types of soil, representing the varied receptions of the Gospel, that is, the “Word of the Kingdom.” The condition of the heart determines whether the seed—the Gospel—takes root and grows. These four heart conditions seen in this parable are actually present in our church congregations across the globe.

We understand that the Parable of the Sower, as recounted in Matthew 13, specifically refers to individuals within the Church rather than those outside it. This is evident from Jesus’ statement that all the individuals in the parable are those who “hear the word of the kingdom” (v. 18). By emphasizing that these persons have received the message of the Kingdom, Jesus highlights that the parable addresses the varied responses of church congregants and those who have encountered the Gospel, thereby stressing the different ways in which the Word is received and acted upon within by professing Christians.

The Seeds on the Path

The first group of churchgoers are those who do not understand the “Word of the Kingdom.” Sadly, many in churches today, as a result of the Prosperity Gospel, have failed to understand the Gospel’s true message. They see it as a means to earthly wealth, social status, and personal gain rather than the divine gift of forgiveness, righteous living through the Holy Spirit, and the hope of eternal life (John 3:16, Ephesians 1:7).

Famous televangelists like Joel Osteen and Kenneth Copeland preach this distorted message, leading many astray. These individuals are represented by seeds sown on the path, which the evil one snatches away. The path is hard and trampled, making it unfit for agricultural activity. Many in our congregations are there for material gain and social prestige and miss the true essence of the Gospel.

The Seeds on Rocky Ground

The second group initially embraces the Gospel with enthusiasm but falls away when faced with tribulation and persecution (Matthew 13:20–21). These are the people who make a profession of faith under external pressure such as false promises of an easy life in Christ, the fear of hell, the desire for social acceptance, family expectations, and various forms of emotional manipulation. Their faith is shallow, like seeds on rocky ground where the soil is thin and unable to sustain roots. When trials come, their faith withers away, but they remain in church.

Unfortunately, many churches, in a desire to swell their numbers, sugarcoat the Gospel to entice conversions. They build huge edifices and make them comfortable with air conditioning, state-of-the-art sound systems, and luxurious seating so as to attract and keep membership. This approach results in superficial commitments that crumble under pressure, as the true cost of discipleship is not fully communicated. The Gospel should be presented honestly, highlighting both the blessings and the challenges of following Christ (Luke 14:27–28).

The Seeds Among Thorns

The third group consists of those with thorny hearts. The “thorns”—worries of life, deceitfulness of wealth, and desires for other things—choke the Gospel (Matthew 13:22). These individuals allow other concerns to overshadow their spiritual growth. The seed of the Gospel is crowded out by competing interests, preventing it from flourishing.

Unfortunately, many messages preached in pulpits today are thorny in that they teach that if one is struggling financially, healthwise, or in relationships, then it means they do not have enough faith. Churches often look favourably at rich congregants and look down on the poor, despite the clear teachings of Scripture (James 2:1–7). The result of such preaching is that people’s attention is drawn away from the riches Christ availed them of through the cross to the earthly riches that they crave. This shift in focus prevents the Gospel from taking root and flourishing in their lives, as they become entangled in the pursuit of worldly success rather than spiritual growth.

The Seeds on Good Soil

The fourth group represents those with hearts like good soil. These individuals hear the Word, understand it, and bear fruit, showing spiritual growth characterized by the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23).

Unlike the material fruit promised by the Prosperity Gospel, this spiritual fruit signifies true transformation and alignment with God’s will. One can identify congregants who fall into this category through the following characteristics:

1. They bear spiritual fruit. They are continually growing in the fruit of the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23, NIV).
2. They are unmoved from their faith by trials and tribulations.
3. They are more entranced by spiritual growth and maturity than acquiring material wealth. These individuals prioritize their relationship with God and seek to grow in Christlikeness, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to biblical integrity regardless of external circumstances.

Insights from this Parable

According to this parable, the majority of congregants are individuals who have never truly understood the Gospel and possess stony, thorny hearts. These individuals, in reality, are unbelievers with an outward Christian appearance. They are the ones Apostle Paul described as “false believers” whom he was in danger from (2 Corinthians 11:26, NIV). Their lives are frequently characterized by blatant sin for which they exhibit no remorse or conviction. Some of these individuals have even attended Bible School, graduated, and now hold leadership positions within Christian congregations.

It is impossible to be a member of a Christian congregation for any length of time without encountering such false believers. They are seated beside you in church, preaching to you from the pulpit, leading worship from the stage, teaching Sunday school classes, and serving in various ministries. Their presence within the church shows the critical importance of discerning genuine spiritual fruit and authentic faith among believers.

Equally vital is the need for you to be well-grounded in proper doctrine. Understanding sound theology is essential to equipping you to recognize and counter the deception that inevitably arises from these false believers. Without a firm grasp of biblical truths, you become vulnerable to misleading teachings and practices that can lead you astray. By immersing yourself in Scripture and adhering to orthodox doctrines, you can discern truth from falsehood, ensuring that your faith remains anchored in the authentic teachings of Christ. This vigilance in doctrine safeguards you, fostering spiritual growth grounded in truth.

Here are more insights from this parable:

1. A Fraction of True Believers

Jesus’ parable suggests that only those who are like good soil—receiving and acting on the Gospel—are genuinely transformed (Matthew 7:21–23). The sad truth is that a small portion of professing Christians globally are truly born again. This calls us to self-examination and a deeper commitment to authentic faith.

2. The False Security of the Prosperity Gospel

The Prosperity Gospel offers a false sense of security, encouraging individuals to engage in church activities while being disconnected from the true message of Christ (1 Timothy 6:9–10). This misrepresentation leads many to focus on earthly rewards rather than eternal truths.

3. The Humble Farmer’s Kingdom

The image of the Kingdom that Jesus presents is not of a king establishing a kingdom but rather of a humble farmer planting seeds. This metaphor emphasizes the slow, organic growth of God’s Kingdom, dependent on the receptivity of human hearts (Matthew 13:31–32). It reminds us of the patient, transformative work of the Gospel.

Conclusion

The Parable of the Sower teaches us about the varied responses to the Gospel and the importance of the heart’s condition. As we reflect on these insights, let us strive to be like the good soil, nurturing the seed of the Gospel to bear spiritual fruit and live lives that truly honour God.

One of the most troubling concerns for both believers and non-believers is the hypocrisy observed among professing Christians. This issue not only tarnishes the image of the Christian faith but also hinders the church’s mission to effectively witness to the world. Jesus Himself addressed this problem in several of His teachings, highlighting that hypocrisy will persist within the church until the end of time.

Invitation to Study

As we embark on this journey of understanding and combating hypocrisy in the church, let us approach it with open hearts and minds. Join us in the coming weeks as we explore Jesus’ perspective on this critical issue through the study of His parables. Together, let us strive to embody the authentic, transformative power of the gospel in our lives.

Definition of Hypocrisy

Hypocrisy refers to the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one’s own behaviour does not conform. The term “hypocrisy” originates from the Greek word “hypokrisis,” which means “playing a part” or “acting on stage,” derived from “hypokrinesthai,” meaning “to judge” or “to answer.” Historically, the word evolved from its theatrical roots in ancient Greece, where actors were known as “hypokrites,” meaning they wore masks and played roles. Over time, the term broadened to describe a person who pretends to have virtues or moral principles that they do not actually possess. This evolution is a shift from a neutral description of acting to a more negative connotation of deceit and insincerity in personal behaviour and moral integrity.

A Historical and Present-Day Issue

Hypocrisy among believers is not a new phenomenon. It has existed since the inception of the church and continues to be a significant issue today. Hypocrisy in this context refers to the behaviour of individuals who outwardly profess faith and piety but live in ways that contradict the teachings of Jesus. This behaviour is often a stumbling block for those outside the church and can be deeply disheartening for sincere believers within the church.

Jesus was acutely aware of this problem and addressed it directly in His teachings. In Matthew 23:27-28, He admonishes the Pharisees, saying, “Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness.”

Jesus’ Parables on Hypocrisy

In Matthew 13:1-33, Jesus shares four parables that provide insight into why hypocrisy is present in the church and why it will remain so until the end of time. The first two parables lay out unseen spiritual factors, and the last two offer seen tangible factors. These parables are:

1. The Parable of the Sower
2. The Parable of the Weeds
3. The Parable of the Mustard Seed
4. The Parable of the Yeast

These parables, which we will study in detail over the next four weeks, shed light on the nature of the Kingdom of heaven and the inevitability of both genuine and false believers coexisting within the church.

The Impact of Hypocrisy

The impact of hypocrisy in the church is profound. It leads to disillusionment and cynicism among believers, causing some to abandon their faith. For non-believers, witnessing hypocrisy serves as a justification for rejecting the gospel. James 1:22 reminds us, “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” This call to authentic living is crucial in combating the detrimental effects of hypocrisy.

A Call to Authentic Faith

To address hypocrisy effectively, the church must commit to preaching the true Gospel of Christ, emphasizing salvation through faith in Christ alone, without reliance on works. Additionally, the church must focus on discipling converts in sound doctrine, ensuring they are grounded in the true teachings of the faith. The church must reject the prosperity gospel and shun the temptation to enrich itself through the gospel. Paul speaks to believers in Romans 2:21–24, “You then who teach others, do you not teach yourself? While you preach against stealing, do you steal? You who say that one must not commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who boast in the law dishonor God by breaking the law. For, as it is written, “The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” This call to introspection is essential for maintaining the integrity of one’s faith.

Moreover, the church must foster an environment where accountability and transparency are valued. Hebrews 10:24–25 emphasizes the importance of mutual encouragement and accountability: “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.“

Conclusion

Hypocrisy is a significant issue within the church, but it is not insurmountable. By understanding Jesus’ teachings and striving for authentic faith, believers can work towards a more genuine representation of the Christian life. Over the next four weeks, we will delve into the four parables from Matthew 13:1-33 to gain deeper insights from Jesus on this topic. Through these studies, we hope to foster a community committed to living out the true teachings of Christ, thereby reducing hypocrisy and enhancing our witness to the world.

Aspiring to pastoral ministry is a noble and profound calling, one that requires dedication, integrity, and a heart aligned with the teachings of Scripture. The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the Thessalonians, provides a clear and insightful blueprint for what constitutes a church leader. In 1 Thessalonians 2:3–8, Paul delineates the qualities that should characterize those who shepherd God’s flock. As we explore these qualities, we will also highlight common deviations seen in contemporary pastoral practice and how they contrast with biblical expectations.

Sincerity and Truthfulness

Paul begins by emphasizing the importance of sincerity and truthfulness in ministry. “For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive” (1 Thessalonians 2:3). A pastor must be committed to the truth of the Gospel, free from deceit or manipulation. The message preached should be unadulterated and pure, reflecting a genuine commitment to God’s Word.

Unfortunately, many pastors today fall into the trap of sensationalism, presenting a watered-down version of the Gospel to attract larger crowds or avoid controversy. This leads to the dissemination of incomplete and erroneous theology, ultimately deceiving the congregation.

Purity of Motive

Paul continues by highlighting the purity of motive: “but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts” (1 Thessalonians 2:4). The primary goal of a pastor should be to please God rather than seek the approval of others. This requires a deep-seated conviction and a focus on God’s approval over human accolades.

In contrast, many pastors prioritize personal gain, popularity, or financial success over faithful ministry. Molding messages to cater to the preferences of the congregation or to engage in practices that elevate personal status undermines the integrity of the pastoral calling.

Gentleness and Care

In verses 7-8, Paul provides a beautiful image of pastoral care: “But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” A biblical pastor exhibits gentleness and a genuine affection for the congregation, akin to the tender care a mother provides her child.

Many pastors, in their quest for efficiency or growth, adopt a more authoritarian or detached approach, neglecting the personal and emotional needs of their congregants. This creates a disconnect and a lack of genuine pastoral care, leaving the congregation feeling unsupported and unloved.

Integrity and Selflessness

“… we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us” – 1 Thessalonians 2:8. Paul’s ministry was marked by integrity and selflessness. He did not exploit his position for personal gain or manipulate his audience for selfish ends. His approach was one of self-giving love and transparent honesty.

The lure of prosperity leads pastors to misuse their influence for financial gain, engaging in exploitative practices such as soliciting excessive donations or living lavishly at the expense of their congregation. This behaviour not only discredits the individual pastor but also tarnishes the reputation of the Church at large.

Conclusion

The qualities outlined by Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:3-8 serve as a timeless guide for aspiring pastors. Sincerity, purity of motive, gentleness, and selflessness are foundational to a ministry that honours God and faithfully serves His people. In a world where the temptations to compromise these qualities are numerous, it is imperative for those called to pastoral ministry to remain steadfast, continually seeking to align their lives and ministries with the biblical model. By so doing, they not only fulfill their divine calling but also provide a powerful and authentic witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.

Haman, son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, is a significant figure in the biblical Book of Esther. His narrative represents one of Satan’s numerous attempts throughout history to annihilate the Jewish people, who were destined to bring forth the Messiah. This week, we scrutinize Haman’s actions as part of a larger satanic agenda to prevent the Messiah’s arrival, detailing his life and motivations according to biblical records.

A foundational verse supporting the Messiah’s lineage through the Jews is found in Genesis 49:10: “The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler’s staff from between his feet, until he [the Messiah] to whom it belongs shall come and the obedience of the nations shall be his.” This verse indicates that the Messiah will emerge from the tribe of Judah, revealing the importance of the Jewish people’s survival.

Haman’s Background and Rise to Power

Haman is introduced in the Book of Esther as an Agagite, a descendant of Agag, the king of the Amalekites. The Amalekites were long-standing enemies of Israel, known for their hostility towards the Jewish people. Haman’s ancestry is significant because it places him in a lineage historically opposed to Israel. His rise to power in the Persian Empire under King Ahasuerus (Xerxes I) was rapid and notable. Appointed as the king’s chief minister, Haman wielded considerable influence and authority.

The Plot to Annihilate the Jews

Haman’s hatred for the Jews is ignited by Mordecai, a Jew who refuses to bow to him. This personal vendetta escalates into a genocidal scheme. In Esther 3:8–9, Haman convinces King Ahasuerus to issue a decree for the destruction of all Jews in the empire. He offers ten thousand talents of silver to the king’s treasuries to facilitate this plan. Haman’s proposal is insidious, couched in accusations that the Jews are rebellious people who do not obey the king’s laws, thereby justifying their extermination.

Satanic Influence and the Messianic Line

Haman’s plot must be viewed as part of a broader, satanic effort to thwart God’s plan for salvation through the Messiah. The destruction of the Jewish people would disrupt the lineage from which the Messiah, as prophesied in Genesis 49:10, was to come. Satan’s attempts to eliminate the Jews are recurrent in biblical history, from Pharaoh’s decree to kill Hebrew male infants in Exodus 1:15-22 to Herod’s massacre of the innocents in Matthew 2:16. Each attempt is aimed at preventing the fulfillment of God’s promise.

The Downfall of Haman

The narrative of Haman reaches its climax as Queen Esther, herself a Jew and cousin to Mordecai, intercedes on behalf of her people. Through a series of divinely orchestrated events, Esther reveals Haman’s plot to King Ahasuerus, who orders Haman to be executed on the very gallows he had prepared for Mordecai (Esther 7:9–10). This reversal not only saves the Jewish people but also draws attention to the futility of opposing God’s plans.

Conclusion

Haman, son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, is a major player in Jewish history whose actions against the Jews align with satanic efforts to thwart God’s redemptive plan through the Messiah. His life and schemes, as detailed in the Book of Esther, underscore the persistent spiritual warfare against the lineage of the Messiah. Genesis 49:10 affirms that the Messiah will come through the Jewish people, making their survival crucial to the fulfillment of this prophecy. Haman’s ultimate defeat results from the sovereignty of God and the inevitability of His plans.

Charismatic circles within Christianity often employ language that, while seemingly spiritual, is manipulative and misleading. These words and phrases are used to influence and control congregations. This week, we will examine seven such terms, analysing their unbiblical nature and how they are utilized for manipulation.

“Breakthrough”

The term “breakthrough” is used in charismatic circles to denote a sudden, significant advancement in one’s spiritual or personal life. For example, a pastor may exhort congregants to sow seeds (give money) for a breakthrough in their finances, promising supernatural returns. The focus consistently lies on the urgency and spectacle of achieving a breakthrough. The biblical concept of practicing patience amidst trials is disregarded. Instead of cherishing patience, there’s a rush for immediate results. As James 1:3–4 advises, “For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”

While the concept of progress is biblical, the emphasis on immediate and dramatic breakthroughs leads to unrealistic expectations and spiritual dependency. Congregants are manipulated into believing that without a breakthrough, they are lacking faith or favour with God.

“Anointing”

In charismatic circles, “anointing” refers to a special endowment of the Holy Spirit upon an individual for ministry or spiritual power. Many church leaders declare themselves the sole vessel of God’s anointing and coerce congregants to submit unquestioningly to their leadership. This manipulative tactic suppresses critical thinking and discourages believers from testing teachings against Scripture (1 John 4:1).

While the concept of being anointed by God is indeed biblical (1 John 2:27), manipulation arises when leaders assert exclusive access to this anointing, leveraging it to wield authority and control over their followers. It is crucial to recognize that all believers are anointed by the Holy Spirit. Speaking to all believers, 1 John 2:20 states, “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and all of you know the truth.” Here, we see the egalitarian nature of God’s anointing, which is accessible to all who believe rather than being the privilege of a select few. Therefore, no one should be exploited or manipulated based on claims of exclusive access to divine anointing.

“Seed Faith”

“Seed faith” is a term used in charismatic circles to promote the idea that financial giving is parallel to planting seeds that will yield a harvest of blessings from God. Charismatic leaders may promise supernatural returns on financial donations, implying that withholding giving will result in missed blessings or even divine punishment. This manipulative tactic exploits congregants’ desires for prosperity and undermines the biblical principle of cheerful giving.

While biblical principles of generosity and stewardship exist (2 Corinthians 9:6-7), the biblical principles of generosity and stewardship primarily emphasize caring for the poor and marginalized rather than exclusively benefiting pastors and ministries. Enriching pastors and ministries is not the purpose of biblical teachings on generosity and stewardship. The manipulation lies in the coercive tactics used to pressure congregants into giving beyond their means under the guise of reaping abundant rewards.

“Spiritual Covering”

“Spiritual covering” is a term used to describe the supposed authority and protection provided by a charismatic leader or ministry. Many pastors assert that without their spiritual covering, congregants are vulnerable to spiritual attack or failure. This manipulative tactic promotes dependence on the leader rather than on God, perpetuating a culture of fear and control.

While accountability and guidance are important in the Christian community (Hebrews 13:17), manipulation occurs when leaders demand unquestioning loyalty and control over every aspect of their followers’ lives.

“Prophetic Decree”

In charismatic circles, a “prophetic decree” is a declaration or prediction made under the guise of divine revelation. Many pastors issue prophetic decrees, declaring blessings or judgments upon individuals or communities, often to manipulate emotions or behaviours. This manipulative tactic undermines the authority of Scripture and promotes a subjective, experiential form of spirituality.

“Spiritual Warfare”

“Spiritual warfare” refers to the battle against demonic forces and spiritual oppression in charismatic theology. The manipulation occurs when leaders exaggerate or fabricate spiritual threats to instil fear and control.

Pastors are fond of attributing personal struggles or societal issues to demonic influence, urging congregants to engage in elaborate rituals or warfare prayers to combat these unseen forces. This manipulative tactic nurtures a siege mentality and distracts from addressing root causes or seeking practical solutions.

“Word of Faith”

“Word of Faith” is a theological movement within charismatic Christianity that emphasizes the power of positive confession and belief in God’s promises for health and prosperity. The manipulation occurs in the implication that faith brings about material blessings and immunity from suffering.

Many pastors teach that a lack of healing or financial success is due to insufficient faith or negative confession, thereby manipulating believers into feeling responsible for their own hardships. This manipulative tactic leads to guilt, shame, and disillusionment when desired outcomes are not realized.

Contrary to popular teachings, faith, as depicted in Scripture, is not an isolated force that believers wield to improve their circumstances. Rather, it’s fundamentally about having confidence in God for the forgiveness of one’s sins and the empowerment to lead a righteous life. The essence of faith lies in trust and reliance on God’s promises, rather than in the manipulation of circumstances through positive declarations. The term “confession” in Scripture originates from the Greek word “homologia,” which means “to acknowledge or agree.” It signifies a declaration of agreement with God’s truth and a sincere acknowledgment of one’s dependence on Him. Thus, it’s crucial to understand that biblical faith centres on trust in God’s character and His ability to bring about redemption and transformation, rather than on the idea of speaking things into existence.

Conclusion

It is crucial to discern and critique the language and practices that veer into manipulation and distortion of biblical truth. By recognizing and challenging these unbiblical tendencies, believers can cultivate a faith that is grounded in God’s Word rather than manipulated by human agendas.