Behind The Scenes!

The original concept behind the word "hypocrite" was that of an actor playing a part on the stage. [Greek "hupokrites"; actor, stage player, or pretender] People watching a production know those on stage are only playing the part of a CHARACTER in the script, but when this becomes the manner of life, "hypocrite" is not a complimentary term. The stage actor walks on stage and performs in the light. However, what is their CHARACTER backstage behind the scenes? What kind of person are they really? Just as some performers may be loveable on the stage, there are some who have an aura of arrogance or some other ugly quality in dealing with others in real life. As someone has noted, "Character is what a man [or woman] is in the dark."

When some questioned Jesus as to why His disciples did not keep the traditions of the elders ( Mark 7:1-5), His response pointed directly to their true CHARACTER.

We read. . .
"(6) And he said to them, "Well did Isaiah prophesy of YOU HYPOCRITES, as it is written, 'This people HONORS ME WITH THEIR LIPS, but THEIR HEART IS FAR FROM ME; (7) in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.' (8) You leave the commandment of God and hold to the tradition of men."" ( Mark 7:6-8 ESV)

Have we been guilty of giving God merely the lip service of our life? Do we recite lines from a "Christian script" trying to put on good appearances while such is actually far from the true CHARACTER of our heart? What are we truly like "behind the scenes"? What is our CHARACTER when away from the assembly of the church? What is revealed of our CHARACTER when away from Bible camp? What is the essence of our CHARACTER when we turn on the television (or choose to turn it off)? What does our choice of movies truly say regarding our CHARACTER? What does that which we bring up on the computer when behind closed doors say regarding our CHARACTER? What is the true essence of our being?

Are what WE BE and what we say reflective of the same essence or is our Christianity merely a part we play for others to watch. God knows and we know the truth regarding what is real and what is not. May our heart be truly drawn close to God so that He will be honored with our entire being. Then, whether in public or in private, it will be the light of the true essence of Christ that will be shining through us.

Have a great day GENUINELY FOLLOWING GOD'S SCRIPT FOR LIFE!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Character