Loving Without Hypocrisy

In the New American Standard Bible (NASB), Romans 12:9 says that we should let love be without hypocrisy. However, the words let and be were later added for readability, so the verse originally reads love without hypocrisy. How do we love without hypocrisy?

Hypocrisy is defined as behavior that contradicts what one claims to believe or feel. When we consider loving without hypocrisy, it means that we truly love others and want the best for them. We do not say with our mouths that we love them when we inwardly do not. In every circumstance, we attempt to count others more significant than ourselves (Philippians 2:3). Secret competition with others or internal comparison that we hold on to might show that we are not walking in true love.

We love others because God has made it easy for us to do through his sacrifice. We recognize that Jesus loves us and died for us. He also left an admonishment for us according to Mark 12:30–31, which tells us to love God with all of our heart and soul and to love our neighbors as ourselves. This love is sincere, without any ulterior motive or added benefit for ourselves.

We also should show love without hypocrisy by displaying love in action. We make ourselves available for other people at work, in the store, or at home because we genuinely regard their needs above our own. It becomes easier for us to give our time, our money, and other resources because we condition ourselves to do it. This love comes without borders. A true love without hypocrisy.