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What does the Bible say about hypocrisy?

Answered in 35 sources

The Bible warns against hypocrisy, particularly illustrated through the actions of the Pharisees, emphasizing the importance of an authentic heart over mere outward appearances.

Hypocrisy, as addressed in the Bible, particularly in Luke 12:1-12, is a grave concern for believers. Jesus specifically warns His disciples to 'Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy' (Luke 12:1). This admonition reveals that the core issue lies in the condition of the heart rather than the outward actions alone. The Pharisees were more focused on external rituals and appearances, neglecting the vital need for inner transformation and sincerity before God. True faith involves honesty and authenticity in our relationship with God, ensuring that our actions are a reflection of a heart transformed by grace rather than a façade intended to deceive others.
Scripture References: Luke 12:1-12, Matthew 23:13-33, Job 8:11, Matthew 23:27, Proverbs 13:5, Mark 12:13-17, Psalm 35:16, Romans 2:1, Matthew 23:27-28, 2 Samuel 15:7-14, Job 8:13-15, Job 11:20, Job 27:8, Luke 20:46-47, Mark 7:6-7, Isaiah 29:13, Romans 2:17-29, Matthew 23:25-28, Luke 12:1, Proverbs 13:1, Luke 6:41-42, Luke 16:15, Matthew 23:28, Matthew 6:2, Matthew 23:13-28, Luke 11:37-44, 1 Samuel 16:7, Proverbs 4:23, John 8, Galatians 1, Luke 18:9-14, Luke 12:1-3, Luke 12:1-2, Matthew 7:1-5, 2 Samuel 12:1-14, Proverbs 6:16-17, Hebrews 4:13, Matthew 7:13-14, Mark 12:38-40, Job 20:5, Luke 11:39-40, Luke 11:42, John 8:1-11, Matthew 15:7-9, Psalm 39:5, Romans 10:2, Luke 12:1-7, Philippians 3:3, Hebrews 4:12, Luke 22:48

Sermons (25)

Hypocrisy
Bruce Crabtree · Mar 12, 2017
All Without Excuse
Kevin Thacker · Feb 19, 2020
Ahithophel’s Rebellion
Eric Lutter · Mar 3, 2026
The hope of the hypocrite!
Charles Simeon · Aug 1, 2023
"Bad lips and hearts"
Don Bell · Mar 10, 2024
The Hypocrite and the True Believer
Clay Curtis · Oct 12, 2025
(An Antidote) Against Hypocrisy
Clifford Parsons · Feb 8, 2026
A Word For His Friends
Eric Lutter · Apr 20, 2025
The Dangers Of Hypocrisy
Tom Harding · Nov 20, 2016
Be Not As The Hypocrites
Todd Nibert · Dec 17, 2025
Hypocrisy Exposed
Greg Elmquist · Sep 28, 2025
The Hypocrite and the True Believer
Clay Curtis · Oct 12, 2025
076. Warnings and Encouragements, Luke 12:1-7
J. C. Ryle · Oct 19, 2018
Hypocrisy!
C. H. Spurgeon · Mar 10, 2017
The Recovery of a Hypocrite
Greg Elmquist · Sep 8, 2024
A subtle leaven which the heart is always ready to receive!
J. C. Ryle · May 8, 2024
09. Formalist and Hypocrisy
John Bunyan · Sep 16, 2017
Clean Outside, Wicked Inside
Peter L. Meney · Oct 21, 2025
Blind Hogs and Dunghills #175
Mike McInnis · Feb 2, 2018
Hypocrisy
Walter Pendleton · Aug 14, 2016
Fear Him
Paul Mahan · Sep 9, 2018
Well Chosen Words Of Comfort
Darvin Pruitt · Nov 6, 2022
Beware Hypocrisy
Peter L. Meney · Nov 4, 2025
The Leaven Of The Pharisees
Mike Baker · Dec 26, 2021
Is there any trace of Judas in your heart?
C. H. Spurgeon · Jun 11, 2025

Articles (10)

Matthew 23:13-33
J.C. Ryle · Mar 2, 2016
Job 8:11
Charles Spurgeon · Dec 27, 2016
Wicked Men Compared to Painted Sepulchres
Benjamin Keach · Mar 28, 2023
"Knowing Their Hypocrisy"
Don Fortner · Sep 26, 2009
Hypocrisy
J.C. Ryle · Aug 30, 2021
Luke 11:37-44
J.C. Ryle · Jul 19, 2016
A Message for the Master’s Friends
Don Fortner · Sep 8, 2010
Expository Thoughts on Luke 12:1-7
J.C. Ryle · Aug 3, 2013
Mark 12:35-44
J.C. Ryle · Apr 25, 2016
Luke 12:1-7
J.C. Ryle · Jul 21, 2016
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