“Do as I say, not as I do!” This cliché is infamous with many being taught from childhood – we have parents constantly saying it as they correct their child’s (learned) behavior. In other words, ‘Never mind the fact that you can clearly see I am doing wrong; ignore my actions and just obey what my lips are saying!’

Back in the day, this special class of people would really irritate Jesus. They were usually the well-studied individuals who carried positions in their religion. Jesus was ruthless in the way He corrected them, because the way they behaved was nothing like the way He behaved.

Thousands of years have passed, but this culture lives on. This “Do as I say, not as I do!” crowd are usually found amongst the sincere churchgoers. They know the Bible inside out – can probably even preach it better than me!

They are the ones who on the outside look so holy and hand out advice to everyone, but when it comes to practicing the Word themselves, they find a way to twist it and give it new meaning! For example, sacrifice. It’s been happening since the Genesis through to Revelation, but they insist that it is no longer necessary, ‘because Jesus already sacrificed for us on the cross.’

If that’s the case, then I guess baptism is also not needed – since Jesus already baptized too!

While we’re at it, let’s take all the kids out of school too – there’s no need for them to keep on going back. Once is enough. And those children whose parents are teachers don’t even need to turn up once – their parents studied enough for the whole family!

Ridiculous right? 

Jesus had a special word for such people: Hypocrites. He made it very clear that He wants us to do as He did. Yes, we must get baptized, sacrifice and actively practice our faith.

Want to know if you are pleasing God? Make sure you do not follow the, “Do as I say, not as I do!” crowd. God will show you that He is pleased through the renewal of your faith and by you actually seeing the benefits of it.

If you are already part of that crowd, get out while there is still time!

May the God of the Bible bless you

Bishop Joshua Fonseca