Sermon Notes
In this passage from Matthew 6:1–24, Jesus teaches His followers about the proper attitudes and practices for three key spiritual disciplines: giving, praying, and fasting. He warns against performing these acts of righteousness in a way that seeks to gain the approval of others. Instead, He emphasizes that these acts should be done in secret, with a pure heart, motivated by a desire to please God alone. Jesus calls for selfless giving to those in need, private and humble prayer, and a secret, sincere fast that focuses on personal devotion rather than public recognition.
The core message encourages us to avoid hypocrisy and empty displays of religion. True righteousness, according to Jesus, is done in secret, where only God sees and rewards. Jesus also teaches that forgiveness is a key component of Christian life, highlighting that if we forgive others, God will forgive us. Moreover, He speaks about the importance of laying up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, emphasizing that where one’s treasure is, there one’s heart will be also. He concludes with a warning that one cannot serve both God and money, indicating the need for singular devotion to God above material wealth.
Scriptures Referenced:
Matthew 6:1–24 (ESV)
Verse 1: Warning against practicing righteousness to be seen by others.
Verses 2–4: Instructions on giving to the needy in secret.
Verses 5–6: Instructions on praying privately.
Verses 7–15: The Lord’s Prayer and teachings on forgiveness.
Verses 16–18: Instructions on fasting in secret.
Verses 19–21: Teaching about storing up treasures in heaven.
Verses 22–23: The eye as the lamp of the body.
Verse 24: The impossibility of serving both God and money.