What does Matthew 6:1-4 teach about giving in secret?

Matthew 6:1-4 is a profound passage that delves into the heart and spirit of giving, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and humility. In this passage, Jesus addresses His followers during the Sermon on the Mount, providing them with guidance on how to live a life that is pleasing to God. The verses read:

"Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." (Matthew 6:1-4, ESV)

The Context of Righteousness

To fully grasp the teaching in these verses, it is essential to understand the broader context of righteousness in the Gospel of Matthew. Righteousness, in this context, refers to living in a way that aligns with God's will and reflects His character. Jesus warns against practicing righteousness with the motive of gaining human approval. The primary concern is not just the act of giving but the heart behind it.

The Danger of Hypocrisy

Jesus explicitly warns against the behavior of the hypocrites, who give to the needy in a manner that draws attention to themselves. The term "hypocrite" in the New Testament often refers to actors in a play, implying that these individuals are merely performing for an audience. By sounding a trumpet, they seek to publicize their generosity and gain praise from others. Jesus points out that such individuals have already received their reward—the fleeting and superficial approval of people.

The Principle of Secrecy

In contrast to the hypocrites, Jesus instructs His followers to give in secret. The phrase "do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing" is a vivid metaphor emphasizing the importance of discretion and humility in giving. The left hand and right hand are part of the same body, yet Jesus suggests that even within oneself, the act of giving should be so discreet that it is almost unconscious. This teaching underscores the importance of pure motives, where the focus is solely on the act of compassion and not on any potential recognition.

The Reward from the Father

Jesus assures that God, who sees what is done in secret, will reward such acts of genuine righteousness. This reward is not necessarily material or immediate but is rooted in the eternal and spiritual blessings that come from living in accordance with God's will. The emphasis is on the divine approval that far surpasses any earthly commendation.

Theological Implications

The teaching in Matthew 6:1-4 has significant theological implications. It challenges believers to examine their motives and to cultivate a heart of humility and sincerity. The passage calls for a shift from a performance-based faith to one that is deeply relational and rooted in a desire to honor God. It aligns with the broader biblical theme of God valuing the heart over outward appearances, as seen in 1 Samuel 16:7, where God tells Samuel, "For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart."

Practical Application

Living out the principles of Matthew 6:1-4 in contemporary life involves several practical steps. First, it requires a conscious effort to give without seeking recognition. This might mean making anonymous donations, volunteering without public acknowledgment, or helping others in ways that are not visible to the broader community. It also involves regular self-examination and prayer, asking God to purify one’s motives and to cultivate a spirit of humility.

Additionally, this teaching encourages believers to trust in God's provision and reward. When the focus shifts from human approval to divine approval, there is a greater sense of freedom and joy in giving. The assurance that God sees and values our actions, even when they are hidden from others, provides deep encouragement and motivation.

Historical and Cultural Insights

Understanding the historical and cultural context of Jesus' time enhances the depth of this passage. In first-century Jewish society, public acts of piety, such as giving alms, praying, and fasting, were highly regarded. However, these acts were sometimes performed with the intention of gaining social status and approval. Jesus' teaching directly challenges this cultural norm, calling His followers to a higher standard of righteousness that is not dependent on public recognition.

Reflections from Christian Literature

Many Christian writers and theologians have reflected on the themes of humility and secret giving. For instance, in his book "The Cost of Discipleship," Dietrich Bonhoeffer emphasizes the importance of living out one's faith authentically and without seeking human approval. He writes, "The disciple's life is a life of hiddenness, a life which is lived in the sight of God alone." This echoes the teaching of Matthew 6:1-4, where the focus is on living in a way that is pleasing to God rather than to people.

Conclusion

Matthew 6:1-4 provides a timeless and powerful lesson on the nature of true righteousness. It calls believers to give with a pure heart, seeking only the approval of God. This passage challenges the human tendency towards hypocrisy and self-promotion, urging a life of humility, sincerity, and genuine compassion. By embracing the principles of secret giving, believers can experience the profound joy and fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with God's will and receiving His eternal reward.