The media’s pretty tough on Christianity these days. I get that. Before I encountered Jesus, the goodness of those few Christians I knew pricked at my conscience eliciting, I have to say, a pretty nasty response. And let’s face it, the church continues to do some terrible things.
Over the last few years, the Vatican’s been embroiled in a complex financial trial involving allegations of embezzlement, fraud, and misuse of church funds. It’s alleged that Vatican officials have stolen over 200 million euros, including funds meant for the poor. If true, that’s unconscionable.
No, I’m not just picking on the Catholics here! We could spend weeks rattling through the major scandals embroiling other denominations.
And yet, we can point the finger at others all day while avoiding our own failings. Question: how would you like it if the press were able to expose you as a hypocrite by publishing all that you’ve done wrong in your life?
So let’s be a tad more productive here. Let’s focus on you and me, on our behaviour, our shortcomings, our hypocrisy. Because all that we think is hidden from the world, all our dark little secrets, are right there in plain view for God.
Revelation 2:23b And all the churches will know that I am he who searches mind and heart, and I will give to each of you according to your works. (ESV)
Listen to me. God loves you beyond words. He sent Jesus to die to pay for each and every one of your sins, so that through your faith in Him, you could be completely forgiven. But God sees it all.
So sure, call out hypocrisy and appalling behaviour. But first look in the mirror, because He will give to each of us according to our works.
That’s God’s Word. Fresh … for you … today.
