It would be a good guess that he was dealing with hypocrisy among the brethren. It is easier to talk about the goodness of God in the gospel than live it out to others. James epistle, one of the earliest, exhorts us to give to those in need rather than pray without sacrifice. For me it's a reminder to not blaspheme the name of God among the Gentiles by my actions among them.

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Bryan Wiley
Layman
Reformed Baptist Church
Louisville, Kentucky

"Seek the Kingdom of God first."