Reflecting on Obedience, Hypocrisy, and Building a Life on Christ
Introduction: The Context of Jesus’ Question
In the Gospels of Luke and Matthew, Jesus asks a piercing question: “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46). This rhetorical question is echoed in Matthew 7:21-23, where Jesus warns that not everyone who calls Him “Lord” will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do the will of His Father. These words challenge us to consider the true meaning of discipleship and the importance of living out our faith. For Christians and Bible students, this topic is vital—it strikes at the heart of what it means to follow Jesus authentically.
Words vs. Actions: The Disconnect Jesus Highlights
Jesus often addressed the gap between what people say and what they actually do. In the context of Luke 6 and Matthew 7, He draws attention to those who profess loyalty with their lips but fail to obey His teachings. To illustrate this, Jesus tells the parable of the wise and foolish builders. The wise builder, He says, is the one who hears His words and puts them into practice—like a man building a house on solid rock. When storms come, the house stands firm. In contrast, the foolish builder hears the words but does not act on them, constructing a house on sand that collapses when trouble arises. The lesson is clear: words alone are not enough; actions reveal the true foundation of our lives.
The Significance of Obedience: More Than Verbal Acknowledgment
True discipleship requires more than saying the right things or making public professions of faith. Jesus makes it clear that obedience is the mark of genuine faith. In Matthew 7:21-23, He warns that many will claim to have done mighty works in His name, but He will declare, “I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.” The difference between empty words and true faith is found in obedience—actually living according to Jesus’ commands. Faith is not just believing the right things but allowing those beliefs to shape our daily choices and actions.
Warning Against Hypocrisy: Living What We Profess
Jesus’ rebuke is a warning against hypocrisy. It is possible to appear religious, attend church, and use spiritual language while our hearts remain distant from God. Hypocrisy is dangerous because it deceives both others and ourselves. Jesus calls His followers to live with integrity, where our actions match our words. Obedience is not about legalism or earning God’s favor, but about responding in love and gratitude to the One who first loved us.
Bearing Good Fruit: Actions Reveal the Heart
Another image Jesus uses is that of a tree and its fruit. He teaches that a good tree bears good fruit, while a bad tree bears bad fruit. This analogy reminds us that our actions are the natural result of what is in our hearts. If we are truly rooted in Christ, our lives will show evidence—acts of love, kindness, forgiveness, and justice. Bearing good fruit is not about perfection, but about direction: are we becoming more like Jesus in how we live?
Building on the Rock: Spiritual Foundations That Last
The spiritual implications of Jesus’ teaching are profound. Building our lives on His words means prioritizing His teachings above all else and allowing them to shape our values, decisions, and relationships. When life’s storms come—whether trials, temptations, or suffering—those who have built on the rock will stand firm. The foundation is not our own strength or goodness, but the faithfulness of Christ and our willingness to follow Him wholeheartedly.
Personal Reflection: Examining Our Own Lives
Jesus’ question invites each of us to self-examination. Do our actions align with our words? Are we building our lives on the solid foundation of His teachings, or on shifting sand? Practical steps for aligning words and actions might include regular self-reflection, seeking accountability in Christian community, and praying for the Holy Spirit’s help to obey Christ in everyday situations. True discipleship is a journey of growth, marked by humility and a desire to become more like our Lord.
Conclusion: The Call to Authentic Discipleship and Obedience
Jesus’ challenge—“Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and do not do what I say?”—is as relevant today as it was two thousand years ago. Authentic discipleship is not about empty words or outward appearances, but about a life transformed by obedience to Christ. Let us examine our hearts, seek to bear good fruit, and build our lives on the solid rock of Jesus’ teachings. In doing so, we will stand firm in faith and reflect His love to the world.
Minister A Francine Green
October 2025
afrancinegreen.com 