Episode 87: Philip Yancy and the Problem of Hypocrisy cover art

Episode 87: Philip Yancy and the Problem of Hypocrisy

Episode 87: Philip Yancy and the Problem of Hypocrisy

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 In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, Derek reflects on the devastating news surrounding Philip Yancey and what it reveals about the persistent problem of hypocrisy within the Christian life. Yancey’s writing shaped the faith of generations, helping many of us trust that grace is greater than sin. When news broke of his long-hidden moral failure, the response was not anger or judgment, but grief, lament, and a sober awareness of our shared human weakness. Rather than throwing stones, this episode turns inward. Hypocrisy is not simply something “out there” among fallen leaders. It is a temptation that lives close to home. Following Jesus requires honest lament over our brokenness and a renewed pursuit of integrity rooted in virtue and the Spirit’s transforming work. The disconnect between our interior life and our public life, between being and doing, lies at the heart of the problem. Sin is more than bad behavior; it is missing the mark and undermining who we were created to be as image-bearers of God. Hypocrisy emerges when we seek the rewards of discipleship without embracing the slow, humbling work of transformation. Jesus had little patience for religious performance, confronting outward righteousness that concealed inward decay. The episode concludes with hope. If you recognize yourself in this struggle, you are not alone. You are not beyond repair. You may simply be a recovering hypocrite—and recovery is possible. Key Insights Hypocrisy is not struggling and failing; it is pretending without pursuing transformation. Sin fractures the harmony between being and doing, making hypocrisy inevitable. The root of hypocrisy is not merely theological but ontological, that is, a problem of being. Christian formation requires virtue, humility, and dependence on the Spirit. Recovery from hypocrisy begins with honest self-examination, repentance, and grace. Books mentioned on this episode: From Aristotle to Christ — Louis Markos What’s So Amazing About Grace? — Philip Yancey Scriptures mentioned on this episode Mark 7:6–7 Matthew 23:27–28 Has Peaceable and Kind been meaningful to you? Support the show by: Leaving a review Giving us a 5-star rating on your podcast app Sharing this episode with a friend Order Derek's new Bible Study Series, God in the Neighborhood: Book 1: Incarnation: 8 Lessons on How God Meets Us || https://amzn.to/42jSZAs Book 2: Crucifixion: 8 Lessons on How God Saves Us || https://amzn.to/459bNUk Book 3: Resurrection: 8 Lessons on How God Restores Us || https://amzn.to/40T0sp0 Did you find this episode helpful on your spiritual journey? Consider helping us out! Leave a review Share it with your friends Give us a 5-Star rating on your podcast app of choice Learn more about Derek’s work as a pastor and author: https://derekvreeland.com Interact with Derek on Instagram, Twitter, Bluesky, or Facebook
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