What does the Bible say about hypocrisy in religion?

In Luke 12:1, Jesus warns his disciples to 'beware of the leaving of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.' This hypocritical behavior relates to their self-righteousness and the false belief that obedience to God can be achieved through one's free will and efforts. The Pharisees' teachings presented a doctrine that was opposed to free grace, and as Jesus addressed them, he highlighted their inability to attain God's standard through their works, illustrating that all efforts of fallen humanity to gain divine favor are in vain.

The hypocrisy of the Pharisees continues today in various forms of religion that suggest humans can earn God's approval through their actions. This notion diminishes the necessity of Christ's atoning sacrifice, as it implies that individuals could achieve righteousness without divine intervention. The message of the Gospel is clear: no action from fallen flesh can merit salvation, as only the blood of Christ can cleanse and redeem us from our sins.