Matthew 6:18- “So that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus concludes His teaching on fasting by emphasizing the importance of keeping it private and focused on God. Fasting is meant to be an intimate act of worship, not a public display for gaining approval or admiration. Jesus reminds us that God sees what is done in secret, and it is His recognition and reward that truly matter. The “reward” here is not necessarily material but the deep spiritual growth and intimacy with God that come from fasting with the right motives.
Historical Context
Fasting was a significant spiritual practice in Jewish culture during Jesus’ time, often associated with repentance, mourning, or seeking God’s guidance. Unfortunately, some religious leaders used fasting as a way to show off their piety, making their practice obvious to gain public admiration. Jesus directly challenges this misuse, teaching that fasting should be a private act of devotion. By shifting the focus from outward appearances to inward sincerity, Jesus restores fasting to its intended purpose: drawing closer to God.
Theological Implications
This verse teaches us that God values authenticity in our worship. Spiritual practices like fasting are not about impressing others but about deepening our relationship with God. It also reminds us of God’s omniscience—He sees and knows what is done in secret, rewarding those who seek Him with pure hearts. This verse calls us to live for God’s approval rather than human applause, trusting that His rewards are far greater than anything the world can offer.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 6:18 completes Jesus’ teaching on fasting, contrasting private devotion with public display. The phrase “your Father, who is unseen” emphasizes the spiritual nature of our relationship with God, while “your Father, who sees what is done in secret” highlights His intimate knowledge of our hearts. The promise of reward ties this verse to the broader theme in Matthew 6, where Jesus consistently points to heavenly rewards over earthly recognition.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 16:7: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
- Psalm 139:1-3: “You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.”
- Hebrews 11:6: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
- Colossians 3:23-24: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Matthew 6:18 is a reminder to focus on pleasing God rather than seeking approval from others. It challenges us to evaluate the motives behind our spiritual practices and ensure they are centered on God. Whether fasting, praying, or serving, we are called to do so with humility and sincerity, trusting that God sees and rewards our faithfulness. This verse also encourages us to embrace spiritual disciplines as a private and personal way to grow closer to God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s desire for an authentic relationship with His people. He doesn’t demand public displays of devotion but invites us to seek Him privately and personally. By promising to reward what is done in secret, God shows His love and care for the unseen acts of faith and worship. His attention to the details of our lives demonstrates that He values our hearts above all else.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself modeled the principles He teaches in this verse. Throughout His ministry, He often withdrew to solitary places to pray and fast, focusing solely on His relationship with the Father (Luke 5:16). His life was marked by humility and a desire to glorify God rather than seek human recognition. Ultimately, Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross was the ultimate act of devotion, done not for public applause but for the redemption of humanity and obedience to the Father’s will (Philippians 2:8).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are there any spiritual practices in your life where you’ve been tempted to seek recognition from others?
- How can you ensure that your fasting or other acts of worship remain private and focused on God?
- What does it mean to you that God sees and rewards what is done in secret?
- How does Jesus’ example of humility and private devotion challenge you in your own spiritual life?
- How can this verse encourage you to deepen your relationship with God through authentic and personal worship?
Matthew 6:18 reminds us that true worship is about seeking God’s presence, not human applause. It calls us to embrace humility and sincerity in our spiritual practices, trusting that God sees our hearts and rewards those who seek Him in spirit and truth.