“…do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.”
- Matthew 6:2
Christ constantly warned his disciples to be aware of hypocrisy in all acts of worship and service in the name of God. Hypocrisy is playing a part or wearing a mask on a stage. It is the leaven of the Pharisees and if it reigns in us, it will ruin us. Hypocrisy is a religion of mere works, words, and show, and a religion that is void of grace, heart, and spirit.
In Matthew 6 our Lord specifically identifies three areas of religious activity which are easily turned into mere acts of hypocrisy: the giving of alms, the matter of prayer, and the practice of fasting. These were prominent religious activities among the Jews of our Lord’s Day and even today, all religions encourage them to some degree and even a lost man associates these things with piousness.
The Giving of Alms (verses 1-4) These verses may be applied to all Christian giving; but the specific subject is charity giving and giving to the poor. This giving is prescribed by the law of God written upon the hearts of all men by nature and by the grace of God. I make this promise: as you exercise generosity for the glory of Christ, you will never impoverish yourself by generosity! Let each give according to his own means, as God hath prospered him. Words of advice: Do not be stingy and do not do anything in a public show.
The Matter of Public Prayer (verses 5-15) All who are saved are taught of God to pray. In these verses, our Lord does not teach His people to pray; but He gives us a model in prayer. Jesus speaks to us to not pray to be seen of men, or use a specific posture in prayer which calls attention to us. As much as possible, let your prayers be unobserved by men and stay away from the use of memorized prayers, voice tones, and religious jargon. Prayer is not informing God; but, it is acknowledging, thanking, and praising God. With our prayer the Holy Spirit teaches what needs we lay at the throne of God. Prayer is simply uttering the desires of our heart.
The Practice of Fasting (verses 16-18) – Fasting is an occasional abstinence from food and carnal pleasures. It is the desires of the body being yielded to the burden of the heart that is prompted by the Spirit of God. We read of many in the bible who fasted in prayer when greatly concerned about a specific matter: David, when his child was dying; the Lord Jesus, before he was tempted; and the church at Antioch, when they ordained Paul and Barnabas to preach the gospel. There is no direct command given in the Word of God requiring anyone to fast. There are poor people in this world who never have enough to eat; so it would be cruel to require them to fast. Sickly people, whose body must be sustained by a very strict diet, would be foolish if they fasted. The only thing the Lord says about fasting is do not appear unto men to fast. Our Lord requires that no one is to know, but you and the Lord, whether you fast or do not fast.
A Simple Application: Do nothing in the worship and service of God merely to be applauded by men. It has been said, the hypocrite is an actor on the stage of life who lets his light shine so bright that others cannot see what is going on backstage. God cares nothing about how much money you give, how long you pray, and whether you fast or not. In the words of the LORD to Samuel …for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.
Post Author: John J. Bagby, Sr.