How to Not Be a Hypocrite
If the truth is told, we are pretty much all hypocrites. Jesus has shown us how to be free of it, even authentically righteous.
Evangelical Christian, Married 30+ yrs. Three Sons, Marriage and Family Therapist with Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. In private practice since 1990. 25 years as developer and facilitator of Domestic Violence/Anger Management. Ordained Minister. Writer (non-professional). Specialize in explicitly Christian approach to counseling, with subspecialties in Couple's therapy, anger management, overcoming anxiety, depression, and emotional damage. Also work with sexual issues.
If the truth is told, we are pretty much all hypocrites. Jesus has shown us how to be free of it, even authentically righteous.
Many Christian leaders and counselors would say there is not. I beg to differ. In many respects, the theories of psychology and the gospel’s message operate from irreconcilable paradigms.
“I just have to let go.” I so often hear Christians use this phrase. It is the specification of what they think is holding them back in their Christian life. It seems, however, that those who voice this idea never move on from that place. Is it a helpful mindset, or is it possible that it represents a belief system that is keeping them stuck?
We are speaking about authentic Christianity. Not the Christianity as commonly conceived, merely of principles for living or even as a source of moral direction. Instead, we are talking about a Christianity that is alive with the very life that is in Christ.
“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Cor. 1:18) We would be wise to consider deeply the meaning of this statement. It is the central and most important message of the New Testament.
Marriage was meant to be a wonderful blessing. We will never realize that blessing without entering God’s way of living in it!