What About All the Hypocrites That Call Themselves Christians, but Don’t Live It?

Hypocrisy can become a real stumbling block when someone claims to follow Jesus but lives in a way that contradicts His Word. Jesus did not overlook hypocrisy or treat it lightly. In Matthew 23, He confronted religious leaders who taught others what was right but failed to live according to what they taught.

In this guest article, Caitlyn Scaggs addresses the difficult question of how to respond when people who call themselves Christians do not live according to their faith. As you consider her perspective, remember that the failures of people do not change who Jesus is. When someone’s actions make you question faith, look beyond imperfect people to the perfect Savior. Jesus is still worthy of your trust, and His Word remains true.

It can be frustrating to look at how someone is living and observe actions that are directly out of alignment with the things they claim to believe. When considering Christianity and faith, you may even pause as you feel yourself resistant because of all the hypocrites that call themselves Christians, but don’t live it.

It is understandable to feel frustrated and maybe even confused by this. But it is also worth thinking deeply about it, considering how to respond, and what God wants most from you.

Why Do Christians Still Struggle with Sin?

The Bible is clear that none of us are perfect. Romans 3:23 succinctly states, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” That means each person who seeks to live a life in alignment with the teachings of Jesus will inevitably fail. The appropriate response is repentance and making adjustments to break the sin cycle in future situations. When feeling frustrated by Christians who live as hypocrites, first remember this. Christians are still humans who face temptations, sin struggles, and strongholds.

Some of the most impactful people featured within the Bible attest to the struggle. For example, Paul the Apostle spoke in Romans 7:15 about the tension of seeking God’s will but struggling with sin. He said, “I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do.” Perfection is not attainable on this side of heaven but Christians can (and should) keep striving to be more and more Christ-like each day.

Keep Your Eyes on Jesus, Not Other People

Guard your mind and heart as to how much you are focusing on imperfect people rather than our perfect God. We should rest our eyes chiefly on God and follow the ways of Jesus. Let’s not let other humans or hypocrisy dissuade us from the beauty of a love relationship with Jesus. Dedicate yourself to getting to know Jesus through reading Scripture and prayer. Refuse to dwell on how other human beings are letting you down and leaving you frustrated.

How Should You Respond to Hypocrisy?

If you are walking in intimacy with God and observe others who profess to know Him, but are living hypocritically, it is time to enter into prayer for them. Rather than simply observing and making judgments, fight for them with the best weapon we have as Christians: intercessory prayer!

Pray that their salvation is real and true. Ask that they will be given the strength to break strongholds and pursue God’s best for them. Also, seek wisdom on your role in coming alongside them to serve as someone who can speak truth in love.

To truly love your neighbor, even hypocritical ones, it is important that you lift them up before our Father God and seek His best for them, through prayer. This also helps shift our perspective and attitude from one of condemnation to one of support, and it honors the way that God has called us to be one body, unified under Him.

It Is About Your Relationship with God

God wants a relationship with you, through His Son Jesus. Do not let the hypocrisy of others distract you from this important thing—the most important thing. No one else but you will answer to the Father when your time on earth is done. Take responsibility for how you will choose to honor Him, seek Him, and follow Him—regardless of what those around you may or may not be doing.

Don’t Let Hypocrisy Keep You from Jesus

As Caitlyn reminds us, people who claim to follow Jesus may disappoint us. Some may even live in ways that clearly contradict what God teaches. Scripture does not ask us to excuse hypocrisy or pretend that sin does not matter. God calls His people to repentance, obedience, and lives that increasingly reflect Christ.

But another person’s failure does not have to become a barrier between you and Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 directs us to fix our eyes on Jesus, the One who began our faith and will bring it to completion. Other people will fail us, but Jesus never does.

If hypocrisy has caused you to question God, bring those questions and hurts to Him. Open His Word. Ask Him to show you who Jesus truly is. And as you recognize the failures of others, follow the prayer of Psalm 139:23–24 and invite the Lord to search your own heart as well.

None of us is saved because we live perfectly. We need a Savior. Jesus Christ died for our sins and rose again so that everyone who turns to Him in repentance and faith can be forgiven and receive eternal life. Look to Jesus, continue growing in His Word, and ask the Holy Spirit to help your life more faithfully reflect the One you follow.

If you are new to faith or still have questions about following Jesus, take your next step with our New Believers course.