“Let love be without hypocrisy” (Romans 12:9). Brother Don DeWelt paraphrased these words, “Let your professions of love be real” (Romans Realized, page 197). Inspiration teaches us that love is the foundation for all of God’s commands: “Love does no harm to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law” (Romans 13:8-10). If we say we love, but do not allow it to influence our actions, that is the height of hypocrisy.
          Christ warned against hypocritical behavior in Matthew 6. He said the hypocrites said and did things to “have glory from men” and to “be seen by men” (6:2,5). The love and honor professed by hypocrites is betrayed by their hearts, resulting in vain worship (Matthew 15:7-9). Hypocritical judgments hinder our influence for Christ among seekers of truth and guidance (Matthew 7:1-5).
          Many opponents Christianity will use the word “hypocrite” as if they make a dollar every time it is said, but we need to be careful that we do not dismiss such accusations without self-examination. That is Christ’s point in Matthew 7. We cannot effectively teach the world about sin and redemption if we have not corrected the sin and sought redemption in our own lives.
          Once we determine to work out our own salvation (Philippians 2:12), we can get to the business of leading others to their salvation. Continually examining ourselves, spending time in the Word, living it and teaching it. “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Timothy 4:16).
          Looking to the Word as the standard, ask yourself, “Does the love I profess for God and man match the life I live?” Be honest with yourself and make the changes necessary so that you can, as Paul wrote, “let love be without hypocrisy.”