Matthew 6:1

a. Sincerity in alms.

1. Take heed Mark well this point of danger. Do alms The Greek word for alms, according to the best manuscripts, is a different word from alms in Matthew 6:2. The word literally signifies righteousness. According to the Jewish usage, the word included the three righteous external acts alms, prayer, and fasting; alms to thy neighbour, prayer to God, fasting to thyself. The precept in this verse, including all these three, requires that they should be done with an eye to God alone, and not to man. To be seen of men But are we not commanded to let our light shine? We are so; but the object and end, even then, are not to be seen of men; but the being seen of men is a mere means of inducing others to do likewise, and securing glory for God. The one terminates motive in man and his applause; the other terminates in God and his cause. And this answers the common cavils against the operations of public societies who publish their benefactions. No reward of your Father You serve the eyes of men, and from men must be all your reward. Act for God’s eye, and God will reward you. Human approbation is a good; a desire for it has its proper place. But it is not its right to fill the place of God’s approbation.