Read Romans 2:1–3, 17–24. What is Paul warning against here? What message should all of us, Jew or Gentile, take from this warning?

From the history of Scripture we understand the the Jews were given the laws God. God himself gave them instructions and commandments for living on this earth. The gentiles where not privileged to receive such instructions and commands. The key is that if the Jews are not obedient to the instructions that God has given them they are no better than gentiles.

As those who have been given the law and as those who are instructors of the law they must live by the same things they teach others to live by. Paul asks a series of questions about the integrity of the Jews to keeping the law which they teach to others. When this is not done the name of God is blasphemed among the gentiles.

Because the Jews received the law of God they were under a greater condemnation when they violated it. The message for us today is that we must live with integrity. We must not speak and teach one thing and then live and do another. The greater you are privilege the more he expects you to utilize those privileges.

How big of a hypocrite are you? That is, how often do you, even if only in your own mind, condemn others for things that you, yourself, are guilty of? How, by taking heed of what Paul has written here, can you change?

The only way to avoid from being a hypocrite is to actually put into practice what we expect and teach others. We mst really look to God to help us not to be hypocritical , or too judgemental of others. It really comes down to living a life of integrity and honesty. When we make this our goal it will help curb the disease of hypocrisy. No matter how difficult things may seem God has help for that difficulty.

Prayer: Father we confess that we have been hypocrites. We confess that we have not lived lives of integrity. Help us to live honest lives. Help us to not be simply talkers of Christianity but doers of Christianity. Thank you for your help. In Jesus name amen.