This quote suggests that those who claim to be virtuous or religious (wearing “Christ’s livery”) but act in ways that contradict these claims are doing the “devil’s drudgery.” In other words, they are serving negative or harmful purposes under the guise of righteousness. The term “hypocrites” is used to describe such individuals who present themselves as virtuous, but their actions reveal a different, often sinister, reality.

The phrase “devil’s drudgery” denotes the tasks or work that are considered evil or morally wrong. “Christ’s livery” is a metaphor for the garb or uniform of those who follow Christ, which symbolizes virtues like honesty, kindness, and humility. Therefore, the quote is a critique of those who use the mask of virtue to hide or justify their immoral actions.

Applying this idea to today’s world, we often see instances of hypocrisy in various spheres of life, including politics, religion, and social issues. For instance, a politician might campaign on a platform of equality and justice, but once in power, they might enact policies that disproportionately harm marginalized communities. Similarly, religious leaders might preach about love and acceptance, but discriminate against certain groups.

In terms of personal development, this quote serves as a reminder to align our actions with our values and beliefs. It encourages us to be authentic and genuine in our behavior, rather than putting on a facade of virtue. It suggests that integrity and consistency between our words and deeds are crucial for personal growth and moral development. It also underlines the importance of self-awareness and introspection in recognizing and addressing our own potential hypocrisies.