Over 75% of Americans identify as Christians, yet only around 35% attend a worship service on any given week. Over 90% of American homes own a Bible, but only 35% of Americans read it weekly. It appears Americans say one thing about their faith, but do something far different. But it's not just those outside the church whose words and faith don't match. It's historically been one of the biggest accusations against the church: hypocrisy. I've heard it throughout my career as a pastor. "I'd go to church, but that church is full of hypocrites." And my response is the same every time, "You are absolutely right. Every church is full of hypocrites like you and me." That doesn't always sit well with people when I say that but then I go on to point out that our words and our actions seldom match, no matter who we are.
The book of James advises against hypocrisy. James words it differently and more succinctly though when he writes, "But be doers of the word, and not hearers only." This Sunday at OKC First Church we will examine what it means to be "doers of the word." We will see how our faith will begin to mature and grown when we begin to live out the faith we so readily proclaim.
Pastor Lesly
