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Sincerity

/sin-SAIR-ih-tee/

Summary

Freedom from hypocrisy and double-mindedness, a pure and upright principle—essential to true worship and Christian character.

☩Biblical Definition

The Greek word 'eilikrines' (sincere) signifies judgment made by examining things in sunlight—as merchants hold goods to the sun to discover defects. Sincere means 'pure, without mixture,' like honey separated from wax. Paul speaks of 'sincerity and truth' opposed to 'the leaven of malice and wickedness.' The sincere milk of the Word is the pure, unadulterated gospel.

Key verses:1 Corinthians 5:82 Corinthians 1:121 Peter 2:2

☩The Sincerity of Christ

Jesus is the pattern of perfect sincerity—'guile was not found in his mouth.' He is 'the true one,' opposed to all that is counterfeit. His character sets the standard: a mind perfectly responsive to truth, with nothing intervening between inner self and outward expression. He demanded the same of His followers: 'Blessed are the pure in heart.'

Key verses:1 Peter 2:221 John 5:20Matthew 5:8

☩Required of Believers

Sincerity must characterize all Christian conduct: love toward God and Christ, service, faith, love to one another, preaching of the gospel. It is opposed to fleshly wisdom and double-mindedness. Servants must render honest service 'in singleness of heart.' Those truly sincere can bear the test of light and are not afraid of examination.

Key verses:Joshua 24:14Ephesians 6:5-7Romans 12:91 John 3:18Philippians 1:10

Related Verses27 mentions

1 Peter· 4 verses

1:222:12:22:22

2 Corinthians· 4 verses

1:122:178:88:24

Ephesians· 2 verses

6:56:24

1 Corinthians· 2 verses

5:810:31

References

  1. 1.Charles Buck, "Sincerity," in A Theological Dictionary (Charles Buck (London), 1802).
  2. 2.John McClintock and James Strong, "Sincerity," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
  3. 3.John McClintock and James Strong, "Sincerity," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
  4. 4.James Hastings (ed.), "Sincerity," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
  5. 5.James Hastings (ed.), "Sincerity," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
  6. 6.James Hastings (ed.), "Sincerity," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
  7. 7.James Hastings (ed.), "Sincerity," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. II (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).
  8. 8.Charles Buck, "Sincerity," in A Theological Dictionary (Charles Buck (London), 1802).