3-Day Bible Reading Plan: God hides from hypocrisy

“Big Idea: God hides from hypocrisy. The word “hide” strikes me sharply. It bears a lot of emotional weight for me. It makes me think of times when I have felt abandoned and alone. It communicates the idea of relational suffering, which I think many of us would agree is one of the deepest forms of pain. God uses this word and others like it to show how he responds to hypocritical worship. God does not like it when we play the “religious game.” Isaiah, a prophet in the Old Testament, made this point clear to Israel in his writings. He not only pointed this sin out but also provided a way for them to make it right with God.” - Pastor Paul, 4/14/2024

Day 1: Recognizing Hypocrisy

• Scripture: Isaiah 1:10-17

• Cross References:

  • James 1:22-27: True and False Religion

  • Matthew 23:1-3: The Teachers of the Law and the Pharisees

  • Proverbs 21:3: Doing what is right and pleasing God

• Reflection Questions:

  • In Isaiah 1:10-13, what reasons does God give for rejecting Israel's worship?

  • How might religious activity sometimes mask a lack of genuine faith?

  • Can you think of any examples from your own life where your outward actions didn't match your heart?

Day 2: Repentance and Transformation

• Scripture: Isaiah 1:16-20

• Cross References:

  • Acts 2:38: Repentance and Forgiveness

  • Romans 12:1-2: Transformation by Renewal of the Mind

  • 2 Corinthians 5:17: Becoming a New Creation in Christ

• Reflection Questions:

  • What steps does God call Israel to take in Isaiah 1:16-17 to restore their relationship with him?

  • How does God offer forgiveness and transformation in these verses?

  • How can we cultivate a heart of repentance and openness to God's transforming work in our lives?

Day 3: Examining Our Own Worship

• Scripture: Isaiah 66:1-2; Micah 7:18-20; 1 Peter 3:7; Isaiah 59:1-2

• Cross References:

  • John 4:23-24: True Worshipers Worship in Spirit and in Truth

  • Colossians 3:15-17: Letting the Word of Christ Dwell in Us Richly

  • Psalm 51:1-19: A Prayer of Repentance by David

• Reflection Questions (Based on Life Level Application Questions):

  • How does Isaiah 66:1-4 describe false worship? What does it mean to "tremble at his word" (v.2)?

  • How does Micah 7:18-20 describe God's forgiveness? How does it make you feel?

  • According to 1 Peter 3:7 and Isaiah 59:1-2, how can our behavior affect our prayers?

  • Have you ever felt distant from God? Could your actions have played a role?

• BONUS: Read Psalm103:1-22. Write God a prayer of thanks for his abundant forgiveness.