Beware of the Levain of the Hypocrite

Text:Luke 12:1 and Matthew 23:13

Introduction: The opposite of sincere, genuine Christianity is hypocrisy.  We must be very aware of the hypocrites, “Cosmetic-Counterfeit Christianity.”   We must also be aware of possible hypocritical tendencies in ourselves. 

Point 1: Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees! Luke 12:1

• Luke is warning us and defines their leaven.
• What is Leaven?An element, such as yeast, the permeates and very subtly influences the entire item affected.
• What is the Leaven of the Pharisees?

1. Luke 12:1 Their Leaven is…Hypocrisy!

Definition: an actor or pretender- one who disguises real heat motives to gain an advantage or influence.

2. 16:1-12 They influence thru…teaching!

*How does a hypocrite teach?

1. Through…through their words and lessons.
2. Through…through their actions and examples.

Point  2: Woe!  They Shut off the Kingdom! Matt. 23:13

• Hypocrites keep themselves and others out of heaven.

• What is the Kingdom Heaven?Simply stated, the Kingdom of God or Heaven is the Church of Jesus Christ. It is the people redeemed by His blood sacrifice.Matt. 13:11, 16:28, Mark 4:1, 9:1, & Col. 1:13-14

• How do they shut people off from the Kingdom?

1. Luke 11:52 They take away “Key of Knowledge”

The Key of Knowledge is the written word about the incarnate Word.  *2 Peter 1:1-15

• True Knowledge (1108)_is “Gnosis” which means the Written Word.
• True Knowledge (1922)_is “Epignosis” which is referring to Christ who is the incarnate Word of God.

2. Matthew 23:15 They make a…“Son of Hell”

Hypocrites do not teach/speak the whole truth

Hypocrites do not live manifest the true Christ

*Example:Children learn from parent’ example.

Practical Applications:

What was your take-away from this morning’s sermon?

Describe the character of leaven and self-righteousness?

Why is personal example so critical to advancing the Kingdom?

Why is it important to examine both our actions and our motives?

List some very specific ways Hypocrites keep people out of the church or becoming fruitful?

Points for Prayer:

• _____________________________________________
• _____________________________________________
• _____________________________________________
• _____________________________________________

DOWNLOAD LESSON