It seems to me that right now, in our current climate, “hypocrite” has become one of culture’s favorite words. Men and woman of small character love to hurl that word at others. More often than not, in my opinion, it’s just an attempt to justify controversial opinions (at best), or to ease their own guilty conscience (at worst). The reality is, we’re ALL hypocrites, at least according to the working definition by which this insult is being exchanged. Unlike God, we have a limited capacity. We CAN’T carry a burden for every form of injustice in equal and simultaneous measure, or fight them all with equal passion. That doesn’t make us hypocrites, though. It makes us finite.
We have to choose our battles as God leads. Unequal investment of time and energy does not necessarily equal hypocrisy. It can also be strategy. It can be wisdom. It can even be the heart of God. I think it’s great seek to draw attention to issues that may be receiving less attention. But, it is a fallacy on a number of levels to label other people/groups as “hypocrites”, based on what you perceive as unequal standards.
- All injustice is not equal. God may call us as individuals to fight many diverse battles of varying magnitude, but He will steer His church as a whole towards engaging in the battles He prioritizes.
- Others may have a different perspective on how to address a particular problem, rather than the apathy you are accusing them of bearing. Try asking questions instead of making indictments.
- Nobody can devote themselves to every cause with equal time and vigor. Silence does not always signify complicity.
True hypocrisy is making moral assertions to which you don’t attempt to conform your behavior. While that certainly does happen (sometimes with very “high profile” figures, unfortunately), this is not the way I see the majority of believers living their every day lives. I see a church that, while far from perfect, is doing her best to engage in the battle – to shine a light on injustice, and to combat it – oftentimes choosing the battles that the world won’t fight, because the issue is too controversial or the stakes are too high. And, you know what? People may call us hypocrites. Sometimes we are. But, more than anything, that accusation it’s just a vain attempt to cover up their own guilt and insecurity. Sometimes, we just need to turn a deaf ear.