Matthew 6:1-24

Big idea

Jesus teaches that true righteousness is not about seeking recognition, but about living for God in secret.

Simple summary

Jesus warns against hypocrisy and teaches how to give, pray, and fast authentically. He also explains the importance of prioritizing eternal wealth over temporal wealth.

Explain it simply

• Jesus doesn't want us to do good things just so people will see us doing them.
• When we give money or food to those in need, we should do it quietly and not tell everyone about it.
• When we pray, we should go into a quiet room by ourselves and talk to God like we would to a friend.
• We shouldn't try to impress people with our prayers or fasting.
• Jesus wants us to focus on getting treasure in heaven, where it will last forever, rather than on earthly wealth that can be lost.

Outline

• Beware of Hypocrisy
• Giving to the Needy
• Prayer
• Fasting
• Treasures in Heaven

Takeaways

• True righteousness is about living for God in secret. (from: Beware of Hypocrisy, Treasures in Heaven)
• When we give, pray, and fast, we should do it quietly and not try to impress others. (from: Giving to the Needy, Prayer, Fasting)
• We should prioritize getting treasure in heaven, where it will last forever, rather than on earthly wealth that can be lost. (from: Treasures in Heaven)

Glossary

• Righteousness: Living for God and doing what is right, even when no one is watching.
• Giving to the needy: Helping people who are in need, without expecting anything in return or trying to get attention for it.
• Prayer: Talking to God and asking for what we need, like a friend would talk to another friend.
• Fasting: Denying ourselves something we enjoy in order to focus on God and our spiritual needs.
• Treasures on earth vs. treasures in heaven: Prioritizing wealth that will last forever, rather than wealth that can be lost or taken away.

Reflection questions

• What are some ways I can practice righteousness without seeking recognition?
• How can I give to those in need without trying to impress others?
• What does it mean to prioritize treasure in heaven over earthly wealth?