Have you heard...

“I didn’t think Christians would do that” followed by the accusation of “hypocrite” there at the end for good measure. This typically comes from one who is hurt by an action or perceived action regardless of their complicity in the matter. I wonder, "How much do my actions determine my Christianity?"

That word HYPOCRITE caught my attention too. Am I one? The answer is yes. What I don't understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise [HYPOCRITE]. So if I can't be trusted to figure out what is best for myself and then do it, it becomes obvious that God's command is necessary.
But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can't keep it [HYPOCRITE], and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don't have what it takes. I can will it, but I can't do it [HYPOCRITE]. I decide to do good, but I don't really do it [HYPOCRITE]; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway [HYPOCRITE]. My decisions, such as they are, don't result in actions [HYPOCRITE]. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time.
It happens so regularly that it's predictable [HYPOCRITE]. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up [HYPOCRITE]. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge [HYPOCRITE]. I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question?
It’s pretty clear I am a HYPOCRITE. I behave like that. Did you notice something familiar about those words except the [HYPOCRITE] part that was mine, something that seemed clear? I hope so, the Holy Spirit reminded of these this morning. They are HIS words found in Romans 7:14-24 (The Message); the words from Paul’s pen regarding himself. I am in good company. So what is our hope?

Paul writes in verse 25:
The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different.
Truth is our Christianity depends on our connection to Christ. Our commitment to Him determines the extent of our transformation. Some more transformed than others therefore more committed. That connection is between Christ and me. Yes, it is a better reflection on me when my words and actions are the same (let your yes be yes and your no be no). Christ alone determines my Christianity. I determine my connection and commitment and how I will allow friends to affect that.
Max Lucado writes in Grace for the Moment p.189: “The supreme force in salvation is God’s grace. Not our works. Not our talents. Not our feelings. Not our strength. Salvation is God’s sudden, calming presence during the stormy seas of our lives. We hear His voice; we take the step. ”

Know I am a hypocrite who is counting on Christ and His grace. That alone makes me a Christian. It does for you too.