Matthew 6:5- “And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus addresses the practice of prayer, warning against praying with the wrong motives. He criticizes those who pray publicly to gain attention and admiration, labeling them as hypocrites. The issue isn’t public prayer itself but the heart behind it. When prayer becomes a performance rather than an intimate conversation with God, it loses its true purpose. Jesus emphasizes that those seeking human recognition through their prayers have already received their reward—the fleeting approval of others—leaving no room for God’s blessing.
Historical Context
In Jesus’ time, prayer was an essential part of Jewish religious life, with specific times and places for prayer, such as synagogues or even street corners when the time for prayer arrived. Some religious leaders and devout individuals took advantage of these moments to showcase their piety, praying loudly in public to gain admiration. Jesus’ teaching directly challenges this cultural norm, calling for a more private and personal approach to prayer that prioritizes sincerity over showmanship.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s desire for authenticity in our relationship with Him. Prayer is meant to be a humble and genuine act of worship, not a means to enhance our reputation. It also reflects the nature of God as one who values inner devotion over outward displays. God’s reward for sincere prayer—peace, intimacy with Him, and His provision—is far greater than the temporary satisfaction of human approval.
Literary Analysis
Matthew 6:5 employs sharp contrasts to emphasize its message. The phrase “to be seen by others” underscores the misguided motive of the hypocrites, while “they have received their reward in full” highlights the emptiness of seeking human praise. This verse is part of a larger section in the Sermon on the Mount that addresses spiritual practices (giving, prayer, fasting), with each teaching focusing on the importance of a heart that seeks God rather than public 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.”
- Luke 18:10-14: The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector contrasts self-righteous prayer with humble, heartfelt prayer.
- James 4:3: “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”
- Philippians 4:6: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For modern believers, Matthew 6:5 is a reminder to examine the motives behind our prayers. Are we praying to draw closer to God, or are we concerned with how others perceive us? This verse encourages Christians to approach prayer with humility and sincerity, valuing the private and personal nature of communication with God. It also challenges us to resist the temptation to use spiritual practices as a way to impress others.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s instruction about prayer reflects His desire for a genuine relationship with His people. He doesn’t want empty words or public displays; He wants our hearts. This verse shows that God values personal connection over performance, inviting us to experience His presence in an intimate and transformative way.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus lived out the principles He taught about prayer. He often withdrew to solitary places to pray, focusing on His relationship with the Father rather than seeking attention (Luke 5:16). His prayers in private, such as in the Garden of Gethsemane (Matthew 26:36-39), reveal a deep and authentic connection with God. Jesus’ life shows us that true prayer is not about outward appearances but about aligning our hearts with God’s will.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What motivates you when you pray—connection with God or the approval of others?
- How can you cultivate a more private and sincere prayer life?
- Are there areas in your spiritual life where you’ve been tempted to seek human recognition?
- How does understanding God’s desire for intimacy in prayer change the way you approach Him?
- How can Jesus’ example of humble, private prayer inspire your own relationship with God?
Matthew 6:5 reminds us that prayer is a personal conversation with God, not a public performance. It challenges us to prioritize sincerity and humility, trusting that God sees and values the prayers offered from a pure heart.