"Hypocrites in the Church" - by Rev. Weldon Bares

Over the years I have heard many reasons why people don’t go to church.

In my opinion, one of the weakest reasons is when someone claims, “There are so many hypocrites in church. I am not going to sit among them.”

I cannot argue the fact that hypocrites are in the church. In fact, hypocrites are found everywhere. But I don't say, “I will no longer go to baseball games because some people in the stands are not real baseball fans. Some of those people aren’t really sincere about baseball, so I will not attend.”

I don't say, “I am no longer going to concerts because some people in the audience don’t really love music.” I don't say, “I am no longer going to the movies because some people in the audience at the movie theater are not really sincere about liking movies and are not there for the right reason. Their heart is not in it.”

Jesus spoke strongly about hypocrites. But he also spoke strongly about judging others. So, when I am in church, I don't wonder about others who are present. I don’t wonder if someone else is living right. I don’t wonder if that person is a hypocrite. My plate is quite full thinking about my own life, my own failings, and my personal relationship with God.

Certainly, every church has hypocrites. May God forgive us and help us to do better. But I thank God that there is room for everyone in God’s house: saints, sinners and yes, even hypocrites. There is room for all of us!