An apostolic face and a Judas heart-J. C. Philpot

                                 (Letters of J. C. Philpot)

Many think that a minister is exempt from such

coldness, deadness, and barrenness, as private

Christians feel. And the hypocritical looks and

words of many of Satan's ministers favor this

delusion. Holiness is so much on their tongues,

and on their faces, that their deluded hearers

necessarily conclude that it is in their hearts.

But, alas! nothing is easier or more common,

than an apostolic face and a Judas heart.

Most pictures that I have seen of the "Last Supper"

represent Judas with a ferocious countenance. Had

painters drawn a holy, meek-looking face, I believe

they would have given a truer resemblance.

Many pass for angels in the pulpit, who if the truth

were known, would be seen to be devils and beasts

in heart, lip, and life at home.

"How terrible it will be for you teachers of religious

law and you Pharisees. Hypocrites! You are so careful

to clean the outside of the cup and the dish, but inside

you are filthy--full of greed and self-indulgence! You try

to look like upright people outwardly, but inside your

hearts are filled with hypocrisy and lawlessness."

Matthew 23:25, 28