In what ways have you seen hypocrisy in the church negatively impact the church’s witness to the world? What do you feel is the best way to eliminate hypocrisy in the church?

[Austin]

I have been always heard that followers of Christ have been shifted from the kingdom of darkness of this world to the world of wonderful light of Him but I people see very much of darkness in the lives of them. As for me, the best way to eliminate this is to read the Bible daily and meditate on the characters of Christ so that the light of God will be shining through our lives.

[Austin]

Personally, I don’t believe there is any way to eliminate hypocrisy this side of heaven.
Hypocrisy should show christians and non christians the truth of the matter…that, we are all hypocrites to some degree or another. This would be the best witness!!! As Steve Brown alway said “I’m just a beggar trying to show another beggar where to find bread”. Knowing this could we hopefully or maybe offer each other a little grace, like our Lord Jesus does? Knowing we are all sinners, and that the ground is level at the foot of the cross…this should level the playing field…and demonstrate to all of us the need of a saviour? In my opinion most, not all…but again I say most christians should get off their high horse. We should never judge someone because their sin looks different than ours. After all what does the Lord require of me? What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. …Micah 6:8, the “Micah Mandate” to me this says it all.

[Austin]

Pastors not practicing what they preach and some Christians acting very rude despite claiming to be followers of Christ. I’m not sure how it could be resolved.

[Austin]

I’ve seen hypocrisy when church leaders and even pastors have been involved in scandals. I don’t believe we will ever be able to eliminate it, I believe it should be taught about through scripture and then handled by again holding the individual accountable, by maybe by removing them from positions permanently or for a time and them by teaching everyone about repentance and forgiveness.

[Austin]

One way I have seen hypocrisy negatively impact the church is the church’s stance on homosexuality. Many clergypersons and parishioners will teach on the subject and yet participate in the acts themselves. The best way to eliminate this hypocrisy is for the church to be consistent in its teachings on the subject. For example, answering questions such as what is the root origin of homosexuality? Why does the church make the story of Sodom and Gomorrah about homosexual acts only and not about all the sinful actions themselves? Why does the church teach there is no hierarchy of sin but puts greater emphasis on homosexuality? Was homosexuality brought in by divine design based on the actions of Adam and Eve since they were the two responsible for eating from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil? Bringing clarity to these answers would better help the church understand the origins of this sexual act and help communities heal.