I'm a pharisee in recovery
With new eyes I can see a big sinner in me
But it's the way of my human heart
To confess other people's sin,
Reluctant to admit my part or the deeper problem within.
But, thank God, He won't let me be, or remain in my hypocrisy
Sooner or later I'll be on my knees
honest to God a recovering Pharisee
I'm a sinner and a saint simultaneously
I'm not what I was or what I'm goin' to be
Still I've got that ol' tendency to be all a wicked man can be
It takes more than knowin' right from wrong
It takes more than singin' gospel songs
It takes the life of the Great I Am to produce any good in me
He's the Vine I'm the branch and I'm learnin' to be
Honest to God, a recovering Pharisee
I need the God of all grace each and every day
If I'm to run his race if I'm to walk in His way
I don't have to be a slave to sin I don't have to let the devil win
Cause the Son of God lives in me and He promises to set me free
So, Jesus, help my unbelief so I can follow you faithfully
You're the Shepherd I'm the sheep and you're helpin' me be
Honest to God, a recovering Pharisee
Recovering Pharisee Video
Recovering Pharisee Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
"Recovering Pharisee" by Buddy Greene is a song that delves into the journey of spiritual realization and the struggle between sin and sanctification in the life of a believer. Through its lyrics, the song explores themes of humility, repentance, and the ongoing process of becoming more like Christ, while acknowledging one's own shortcomings and the tendency to judge others. The title itself is a clever play on words, combining the concept of recovery from a negative condition with the biblical figure of the Pharisee, known for their self-righteousness and legalism.
The song begins by presenting the narrator as someone who recognizes their own Pharisaical tendencies—judging others while ignoring their own faults. This admission sets the tone for a confessional narrative that emphasizes the human condition of sinfulness and the need for divine intervention. The phrase "pharisee in recovery" suggests an ongoing process of transformation, one that requires continual effort and divine grace.
As the song progresses, the lyrics delve into the internal struggle faced by the believer, captured in lines that confess to being both a sinner and a saint simultaneously. This duality reflects the Christian understanding of sanctification, where one is saved and made righteous through faith in Christ, yet still battles with sin in their earthly life. It’s a nod to the Apostle Paul’s reflections in Romans 7:15-20, where he discusses the conflict between wanting to do good but doing what he hates instead.
The chorus of the song is a plea for divine assistance in overcoming these inner battles, highlighting the dependence of the believer on God's grace to change and grow. This is reminiscent of Paul’s words in Philippians 2:13, "for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."
The song also mentions the metaphor of the vine and the branches found in John 15:1-5, where Jesus describes Himself as the true vine and His followers as the branches. This analogy emphasizes the necessity of remaining in Christ for spiritual growth and fruitfulness, further underscoring the theme of dependence on God for transformation.
By the end, "Recovering Pharisee" evolves into a prayer for increased faith and the ability to follow Jesus more faithfully, capturing the essence of the Christian journey as one of continual growth, learning, and reliance on God’s grace. It’s a humble acknowledgment that overcoming Pharisaical attitudes and behaviors is not something one can do alone but requires the transformative power of Christ living within.
In summary, "Recovering Pharisee" by Buddy Greene is a rich, introspective piece that encourages listeners to examine their own lives, confess their sins, and seek God's help in the process of sanctification. By weaving together personal confession with biblical themes and metaphors, the song offers a poignant reminder of the power of grace and the beauty of a life continually surrendered to God.
