6 Signs of a Jesus Follower

They Are Not Hypocritical

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They Are Not Hypocritical

There is likely no accusation more provocative than that of a hypocrite. When Jesus taught the significance of prayer, fasting and alms-giving for kingdom people, He discouraged us from following the examples of those who are hypocrites. By making long public prayers, employing extreme measures to ensure others noticed their fasts and parading their gifts to the Temple and the poor, they revealed only an outward attachment to the Lord. While the Pharisees performed well their dramatic role as public examples of religious virtue, they failed miserably in the inner world of their heart where true virtue resides. As followers of Jesus, we are called to give to those in need and pray often, but we should do so without calling attention to ourselves. A Jesus follower doesn’t look for praise for the things they do. They walk humbly. Anyone giving, praying or fasting in such a way that draws attention to themselves would be like a Pharisee, the group of people that Jesus spoke most harshly.