Reading the Word

Luke 12:1–3 (ESV)

1 In the meantime, when so many thousands of the people had gathered together that they were trampling one another, he began to say to his disciples first, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2 Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. 3 Therefore whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed on the housetops.

Understanding and Applying the Word

In the previous verses, Jesus warned the Pharisees about their religious hypocrisy. In today’s passage, he warns his disciples of the same thing. Sin will be brought to light. One may act a certain way in the light (i.e. the presence of others) while revealing sinful thoughts and attitudes in the dark (i.e. in secret and out of public view). Such things do not fool God and will be uncovered.

Religious hypocrisy is a serious offense to God. Do you put on your Sunday best and speak wonderful things in the presence of your church family and pastor and then go home and tell your spouse why you do not like “this person” or “that person” or “this decision” or “that decision”? Do you not know that all of those secret whispers will be made known? Such actions are harmful to the body of Christ, unloving, and sinful. May we repent of our hypocrisy and ask the Lord to change our hearts.

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