Christians are such Hypocrites!

Why do Christians get accused of hypocrisy so much?

Merriam-Webster:
1 : a feigning to be what one is not or to believe what one does not; especially : the false assumption of an appearance of virtue or religion.

Well? Is it true? Lots of times it is. The important word here seems to be false. Other people might say, "Hey, I'm greedy, selfish and obnoxious. Get outta my way." Greedy, selfish, obnoxious Christians pretend God wants them to be greedy, selfish and obnoxious.
I know for a fact that I’m a hypocrite. Not all the time, mind you, and not in a big way, (I hope) but at times I say one thing and do another. I’m a hypocrite. In fact, I’m not sure I’ve met a person who isn’t one. It’s not just Christians – it’s human nature.

The big difference between Christians and others is that we’re supposed to at least try to be better. After all, we’re supposed to be salt and light! But for the most part we act like everyone else. Are we Christians in words AND actions? Do we follow Jesus’ example? Or do we talk a good talk, criticize everyone else, then go home to our expensive houses, turn on our big-screen T.V. and watch “American idol?” (I’m not against houses or televisions, but I think the amassment of excessive stuff is not a Christian value, and if you say it is, you’re justifying greed.)

If you spent time with several strangers, could you tell - by their actions - which ones were Christians? (Political opinions, cross jewelry and bumper stickers on cars are not actions.) Not often, I bet. I wouldn’t have ever guessed Carrie Prejean was a Christian based on her actions. (If you’ve been living under a rock, Google it.)

What should we do? First read the Bible – actually read it – and think about what it says. Especially focus on Jesus’ attitude towards the Pharisees, because they were hypocrisy-in-action. Then, admit when you are wrong, go to the Lord in prayer, and - this is the hard part - follow his example.

Matthew 23:13
"Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You shut the kingdom of heaven in men's faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to."
(Realize that he was talking to the great religious leaders when he said this!)

"For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God."
1 Peter 2:15-16

Peace, Love, & Grace