Matthew 6 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of Matthew 6

The Gospel of Matthew was written by the apostle Matthew, also known as Levi, who was one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ. Matthew, a former tax collector, had a unique perspective on the teachings and ministry of Jesus. Jesus continues his Sermon on the Mount in this chapter, providing guidance on how his followers should live their lives. He addresses important topics such as the proper way to give to the needy, pray, and fast. Jesus also warns against the dangers of materialism and encourages his disciples to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth.

Throughout this passage, Jesus emphasizes the importance of having the right motivations and priorities. He reminds his followers that God sees their hearts and that true righteousness comes from within, not from outward displays of piety. These teachings are crucial for the disciples as they prepare to carry on Jesus’ mission after his departure. Jesus challenges us to examine our own motives and priorities as we delve into this chapter and seek God’s kingdom above all else.

Matthew 6:1-4

The verse in Matthew 6:1-4 can be broken down into a few important sections. The first section addresses the concept of giving to the needy or charitable works. The verse states, “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” This section reminds us that acts of charity or giving should be done with a genuine heart and not for the sake of receiving praise or recognition from others. It highlights the importance of sincerity and humility in our actions towards helping those in need.

The mention of doing these acts of righteousness in secrecy reflects the idea of sincerity and humility that should accompany our deeds. Many religious leaders in the time of Jesus publicly displayed their acts of giving to gain praise from others. Jesus is cautioning against this and emphasizing the inward intentions of the heart over outward displays of righteousness. This lesson is timeless as it speaks to the purity of one’s motives and the importance of humility in serving others.

The concept of giving to the needy is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of generosity and caring for the less fortunate. Proverbs 19:17 in the Old Testament states, “Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done.”” This mirrors the idea that acts of kindness and charity are not just for the benefit of others but are also seen and valued by God.

Jesus also refers to the reward from the Father in heaven, indicating that true blessings come from God and not from the recognition of people. This aligns with the teaching in other parts of the Bible, such as in Colossians 3:23-24, where it says, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.” This reinforces the idea that our actions should be motivated by our relationship with God and the desire to honor Him, rather than seeking approval or accolades from others. Matthew 6:1-4 serves as a reminder of the importance of sincerity, humility, and genuine motives in our acts of charity and righteousness. It calls us to examine our hearts and intentions when helping others, emphasizing that true rewards come from God and not from the praise of people. It is a timeless message that encourages believers to prioritize their relationship with God above seeking validation or recognition from the world.

Matthew 6:5-8

Jesus discusses the importance of genuine and sincere prayer in Matthew 6:5-8, contrasting it with the hypocritical practices of the religious leaders of his time. Let’s break down this verse into key sections for a more comprehensive understanding. Jesus warns against practicing righteousness in order to be seen by others, particularly criticizing the Pharisees for their ostentatious display of piety in the first section. He specifically references their habit of standing in the synagogues and on street corners to pray loudly, seeking applause and recognition from people rather than focusing on their relationship with God. This emphasis on external performance, rather than genuine faith, reflects a recurring theme in Jesus’ teachings about sincerity and humility in worship.

The impact of this section on the Bible’s timeless message is significant. Jesus is highlighting the importance of true devotion and faith rather than performative acts of righteousness. This aligns with other passages where Jesus emphasizes the condition of the heart over outward displays of religious practice. For instance, in Mark 12:41-44, Jesus praises a poor widow for giving all she had, emphasizing that true generosity and piety come from a genuine heart, not from seeking praise or recognition from others.

Moving on to the next section, Jesus instructs his followers to go into their rooms and shut the door to pray in secret. This model of private prayer is presented as an alternative to the hypocritical practices of the religious leaders. Jesus stresses the importance of authenticity and honesty in our relationship with God by emphasizing the intimacy of personal prayer. The act of praying in secret reflects the depth of one’s faith and the sincerity of their devotion.

This section underscores the value of personal connection with God and the significance of humility in prayer. Jesus’ teachings in this passage challenge his listeners to prioritize the authenticity of their worship over public displays of religious devotion. It echoes the sentiment expressed in James 4:8, which encourages believers to draw near to God with a genuine heart in humility. Jesus provides a model for prayer known as the Lord’s Prayer in the final section of the passage. This prayer serves as a template for genuine, heartfelt communication with God, encompassing themes of praise, submission to God’s will, forgiveness, and requests for daily needs. The Lord’s Prayer encapsulates the essence of a humble and sincere conversation with God, reflecting the foundational elements of Christian faith and practice.

The Lord’s Prayer is not merely a rote recitation but a guide for believers to approach God with reverence, gratitude, and trust. It emphasizes the relational aspect of prayer, highlighting the believer’s dependence on God for both spiritual and physical sustenance. This prayer reinforces Jesus’ teachings on the sincerity of worship and the importance of aligning one’s heart with God’s will, which is a central theme throughout the Bible. Matthew 6:5-8 conveys profound lessons on the nature of true prayer and authentic devotion to God. Jesus emphasizes the importance of genuine faith, humility, and personal connection in our relationship with God by contrasting hypocrisy with sincerity. Through his teachings on prayer and the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus provides a timeless and transformative model for believers to approach God with reverence, integrity, and trust.

Matthew 6:9-13

Matthew 6:9-13 contains what is commonly known as the Lord’s Prayer. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a detailed commentary:

1. Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name:
   This opening phrase acknowledges God as our Father who is in heaven, emphasizing the holiness and reverence we should have towards God’s name. Jesus establishes a personal and intimate relationship between believers and God by addressing God as our Father, emphasizing the familial bond we have with our Creator. This serves as a reminder of God’s authority, power, and holiness, which sets the tone for the rest of the prayer.

2. Jesus expresses the desire for God’s kingdom to come and for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven in this section. This reflects the longing for God’s reign to be established on earth, where His righteousness and justice prevail. Believers recognize God’s sovereignty and authority in their lives by submitting to His will. This also echoes Jesus’ teachings in other parts of the Gospels, such as in Matthew 26:39, where Jesus prays in Gethsemane, “not as I will, but as you will.”

3. Give us this day our daily bread:
   The prayer then shifts to a request for provision, both physical and spiritual. Asking for daily bread reflects a dependency on God for sustenance. This petition encourages believers to trust in God’s faithfulness to provide for their needs each day. It reminds us of God’s role as the ultimate provider, as seen in verses like Psalm 145:15-16, “The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time.”

4. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors:
   This section highlights the importance of forgiveness. Just as we ask for God’s forgiveness for our sins, we are also called to forgive others. The concept of debts in this context refers to sins or trespasses. This conditional request for forgiveness underscores the connection between receiving God’s forgiveness and extending that forgiveness to others. Jesus expands on this concept in verses like Matthew 6:14-15, where he emphasizes the linkage between receiving forgiveness and forgiving others.

5. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one:
   The Lord’s Prayer concludes with a plea for God’s guidance and protection. Believers acknowledge their own vulnerability and reliance on God’s strength to overcome trials and temptations by asking not to be led into temptation and to be delivered from evil. This portion acknowledges the spiritual battle believers face and affirms their trust in God’s power to guard them against the schemes of the enemy, as mentioned in verses like 1 Corinthians 10:13, which assures that God provides a way out of temptation. The Lord’s Prayer in Matthew 6:9-13 encapsulates essential aspects of the Christian faith, from acknowledging God’s holiness and sovereignty to seeking provision, forgiveness, and protection. This prayer serves as a model for believers to approach God with reverence, dependency, humility, and a heart of forgiveness, aligning their will with God’s and seeking His kingdom above all else. The timeless message conveyed through this prayer is the intimate relationship believers have with their Heavenly Father and the importance of aligning their hearts with His will in all aspects of life.

Matthew 6:14-15

Two key sections in Matthew 6:14-15 hold profound meaning in the context of the larger message of the Sermon on the Mount. The first section, verse 14, states, “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” This verse emphasizes the significance of forgiveness in the life of a believer. Forgiveness is a central theme in Christianity, and here Jesus is instructing his followers on the importance of extending forgiveness to others. We open ourselves up to receiving God’s forgiveness by forgiving others. This reciprocal nature of forgiveness underscores the fundamental principle of treating others as we would like to be treated, as emphasized in the Golden Rule (Matthew 7:12).

The second section, verse 15, complements the previous one by saying, “But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.” This verse serves as a solemn warning about the consequences of withholding forgiveness from others. Jesus is emphasizing that harboring unforgiveness in our hearts can hinder our relationship with God. Unforgiveness not only weighs us down emotionally and spiritually but also creates a barrier between us and God’s forgiveness and blessings. This aligns with the teachings of Jesus in the Lord’s Prayer, where he emphasizes the importance of forgiveness: “Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors” (Matthew 6:12).

The message conveyed in these verses echoes throughout the Bible. The theme of forgiveness is intricately woven into the fabric of biblical teachings, reflecting God’s character of mercy and grace. Jesus illustrates the importance of forgiveness through a story in the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:21-35), where a servant who was forgiven much refused to forgive a fellow servant. This parable underscores the magnitude of God’s forgiveness toward us and the expectation that we, in turn, extend that forgiveness to others. The transformative power of forgiveness in the lives of believers is ultimately served as a powerful reminder by Matthew 6:14-15. We mirror the character of God and experience the freedom that comes from letting go of resentment and extending grace to others by exemplifying forgiveness. These verses teach us that forgiveness is not just a moral obligation but a spiritual discipline that cultivates humility, compassion, and reconciliation in our relationships with others and with God.

Matthew 6:16-18

Jesus addresses the issue of fasting in Matthew 6:16-18. Let’s break down this verse into important sections for a more in-depth analysis.

1. “16. When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting.”
   This verse begins by acknowledging the act of fasting, which was a common religious practice in Jewish culture at the time. Fasting involved abstaining from food for a period of time as a form of devotion or penance. However, Jesus warns against fasting with the wrong intentions, specifically for the purpose of seeking approval or recognition from others. The hypocrites would deliberately appear disheveled and sad while fasting, not out of genuine reverence for God, but to be seen and praised by people for their apparent piety. Here, Jesus emphasizes the importance of maintaining sincerity and purity in one’s actions, urging his followers to prioritize their relationship with God over seeking human approval.

2. **”17. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 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. Jesus provides guidance on how to fast with the right heart attitude in these verses. Jesus encourages humility and modesty in spiritual disciplines by advising his followers to groom themselves and not draw attention to their fasting. The reference to putting oil on one’s head and washing the face symbolizes cleanliness and anointing, which were signs of joy and celebration in Jewish culture. Individuals engage in fasting as an act of intimacy between themselves and God, rather than a public display for recognition. Jesus emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s approval over human approval, highlighting the value of sincerity and authenticity in one’s faith.

The overarching message of these verses in Matthew 6:16-18 stresses the significance of genuine devotion to God and the humility required in practicing spiritual disciplines such as fasting. Jesus warns against performative acts of righteousness done solely for the approval of others, emphasizing the need for sincerity and authenticity in one’s relationship with God. This message aligns with other teachings of Jesus throughout the Gospels, where he consistently emphasizes the importance of integrity, honesty, and purity of heart in serving God. Jesus tells the parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector in Luke 18:9-14, illustrating the contrast between a self-righteous attitude and a humble spirit before God. The Pharisee proudly displays his religious deeds for public recognition, while the tax collector humbly acknowledges his sinfulness and pleads for God’s mercy. Jesus concludes the parable by stating that the humble will be exalted, while the exalted will be humbled. This parable echoes the message in Matthew 6:16-18, emphasizing the value of sincere humility in one’s relationship with God.

Matthew 6:19-21

Jesus speaks to his disciples about the impermanence of material wealth and the importance of prioritizing spiritual treasures in Matthew 6:19-21. The verses read, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

This passage holds a profound message about the dangers of placing too much value on earthly possessions which are ultimately temporary and vulnerable to loss. Jesus urges his followers to seek after eternal treasures in heaven instead. The imagery of moths, rust, and thieves highlights the fragility and insecurity of worldly wealth, emphasizing the fleeting nature of material goods. Jesus directs his disciples towards investing in their relationship with God and storing up spiritual riches that have lasting value by encouraging them to focus on heavenly treasures. This echoes the sentiment found in Proverbs 23:4-5, “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.”

Throughout the Bible, there are numerous examples of individuals who faced the consequences of prioritizing earthly treasures over spiritual wealth. One notable figure is the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-22, who approached Jesus seeking eternal life but was unwilling to part with his great wealth to follow Him. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the barriers that material possessions can create in one’s relationship with God. Matthew 6:19-21 challenges believers to reexamine their priorities and consider where they are investing their time, resources, and affections. It underscores the fleeting nature of worldly wealth and underscores the eternal significance of seeking after treasures in heaven. This passage reminds Christians to cultivate a mindset that values spiritual growth and righteousness above material gain, ultimately guiding them towards a deeper, more fulfilling relationship with God.

Matthew 6:22-23

Jesus says in Matthew 6:22-23, “The eye is the lamp of the body.” If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!”

This verse can be broken down into two main sections. The first part speaks about the eye being the lamp of the body, implying that our perception and focus determine the state of our spiritual being. The second part emphasizes the importance of having a healthy perspective and the consequences of having an unhealthy one.

When Jesus mentions the eye as the lamp of the body, He is alluding to the idea that what we choose to focus on and take into our minds impacts our overall spiritual well-being. Just as a lamp provides light to a room, our eyes illuminate our path and shape our thoughts and actions. This imagery reinforces the importance of guarding what we allow ourselves to see and absorb, as it directly affects our spiritual health.

The contrast between having healthy eyes that let in light and unhealthy eyes that let in darkness is a powerful reminder of the battle between good and evil that takes place within us. When we choose to fix our gaze on things that are pure, noble, and true (Philippians 4:8), our whole being is filled with light and reflects the goodness of God. Conversely, if we indulge in sinful or negative influences, our inner light becomes obscured, leading to spiritual darkness and separation from God.

Jesus warns about the danger of having darkness within us while thinking it is light. This deception can lead to self-righteousness, pride, and a distorted perception of God’s truth. It serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of self-examination and humility before God, acknowledging our need for His guidance and grace to illuminate our hearts and minds.

This passage resonates with other teachings of Jesus, such as the Parable of the Ten Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13), where five virgins are prepared with oil for their lamps (symbolizing spiritual readiness) while the other five are caught unprepared and in darkness. The message is clear: we must continually seek the light of God’s truth, be vigilant in our spiritual walk, and ensure that our eyes are fixed on Him to avoid being engulfed by darkness.

Matthew 6:24

The verse in Matthew 6:24 reads, “No one can serve two masters.” Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” This verse highlights the fundamental idea that a person cannot serve two conflicting interests or masters simultaneously. The two masters mentioned here are God and money, symbolizing spiritual priorities versus material priorities.

The emphasis on choosing between God and money is crucial in the Christian faith as it reflects the broader theme of placing God at the center of one’s life rather than pursuing worldly riches. Jesus Christ frequently taught about the dangers of wealth and the corruption it can bring to one’s spiritual journey. This verse warns against the love of money superseding one’s devotion to God, as it can lead to spiritual downfall and moral compromises.

The term “money” in this context represents not only physical currency but also all material pursuits and desires that can distract individuals from their faith. It serves as a metaphor for earthly attachments that can hinder one’s relationship with God. This conflict between spiritual and material interests is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth and righteousness over worldly gains.

The idea of serving two masters also echoes the Old Testament commandment to have no other gods before the one true God (Exodus 20:3). This verse reinforces the concept of loyalty and wholehearted devotion to God, highlighting the incompatibility of divided loyalties in the Christian walk. Throughout the Bible, individuals are called to make choices that reflect their commitment to God, even if it means sacrificing worldly comforts or ambitions. Believers are reminded that their resources and possessions ultimately belong to God, underscoring the principle of stewardship. It encourages Christians to use their wealth and assets wisely for Kingdom purposes rather than being consumed by greed or materialism. Jesus often spoke about the importance of seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that all our needs will be provided for (Matthew 6:33). Matthew 6:24 serves as a potent reminder of the eternal struggle between serving God or worldly pursuits. It challenges believers to examine their hearts and actively choose to prioritize their faith over material gain. Christians can experience true freedom and fulfillment that transcends the temporary pleasures of this world by heeding this warning and aligning their lives with God’s will.

Matthew 6:25-27

Jesus addresses worry and anxiety in Matthew 6:25-27, instructing his followers not to be anxious about their lives, what they will eat or drink, or what they will wear. This passage is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches his disciples about various aspects of righteous living. Jesus highlights the futility of worrying about basic needs such as food and clothing in this section. He uses the illustration of the birds of the air, which do not sow, reap, or store food in barns, yet are provided for by God. Similarly, he points to the lilies of the field, which do not labor or spin, yet are clothed in splendor by God. Through these examples, Jesus emphasizes divine providence and care over creation. We, as followers of Christ, are called to trust in God’s provision and faithfulness rather than being consumed by worry. Jesus reminds us that worrying cannot add a single hour to our lives. This teaching underscores the concept of God’s sovereignty and our need to depend on Him for everything. It echoes the sentiment found in Proverbs 3:5-6 to trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

This passage challenges us to prioritize our relationship with God and seek His kingdom above all else, knowing that He is aware of our needs. We align ourselves with His purposes and experience peace that transcends understanding by shifting our focus from earthly concerns to seeking God’s will. Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25-27 serve as a reminder of the importance of faith, trust, and reliance on God in the journey of discipleship.

Matthew 6:28-30

Jesus teaches a valuable lesson through the analogy of the lilies of the field in Matthew 6:28-30. Let’s break down this verse into important sections and provide in-depth commentary on its meaning and its impact on the Bible’s timeless messages.

Beginning with verse 28, Jesus says, “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.” Here, Jesus is addressing the issue of worry, specifically worrying about material possessions such as clothing. Jesus highlights the futility of excessive worry about earthly needs by pointing to the flowers of the field, which do not toil or spin yet are beautifully clothed by God. This message resonates with the broader theme of trust in God’s provision found throughout the Bible.

Moving on to verse 29, Jesus continues, “Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. Jesus is emphasizing the surpassing worth of God’s creations over man-made riches and luxury by referencing King Solomon, known for his great wealth and wisdom. This comparison not only underscores the beauty and care with which God has adorned the lilies but also serves as a reminder of the temporary nature of earthly wealth. This echoes a common biblical theme that stresses the importance of prioritizing spiritual treasures over material wealth, as articulated in other passages such as Matthew 6:19-21.

Concluding the passage in verse 30, Jesus states, “If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will He not much more clothe you—you of little faith?” Here, Jesus highlights the transient nature of human life and possessions, pointing out that even the grass, which is so short-lived, is provided for by God. Jesus challenges the disciples to trust in God’s care and provision for their needs by addressing their lack of faith. This call to faith over worry is a recurring theme in the Bible, exemplified by verses like Philippians 4:6-7, which encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving and experience the peace that surpasses understanding. The passage in Matthew 6:28-30 serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of trust, faith, and reliance on God’s provision. Jesus redirects the focus toward spiritual values and priorities by drawing attention to the beauty of the lilies of the field and contrasting it with human concerns over clothing and wealth. This message continues to resonate with believers today, urging them to seek first the kingdom of God and trust in His care for their needs, rather than succumbing to anxiety and excessive worry about worldly possessions.

Matthew 6:31-34

The verse in Matthew 6:31-34 is divided into several important sections. “So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’”
This section highlights the common concerns that people have about their basic needs – food, drink, and clothing. Jesus is advising his disciples not to worry excessively about these things, but rather to trust in God to provide for them. This message is profoundly relevant today when many people are preoccupied with material possessions and livelihood. Jesus is calling for a shift in perspective towards faith and trust in God’s provision by emphasizing the futility of excessive worry over these things.

1. “For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.”
   Here, Jesus contrasts his followers with “the pagans” who are consumed by pursuing material goods and worldly desires. Jesus is reassuring his disciples that they are not alone in their struggles by highlighting that God knows our needs. This verse serves to remind people that worldly possessions should not be the sole focus of their lives, as God is aware of their needs and will provide for them accordingly if they have faith.

2. “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
   This section serves as a pivotal message in the verse. Jesus instructs his disciples to prioritize seeking God’s kingdom and living righteously above all else. Putting God first in their lives will make everything else fall into place. This aligns with the broader biblical theme of seeking God’s will and righteousness as the path to true fulfillment and provision. It underscores the significance of maintaining a strong spiritual foundation and trusting in God’s plan.

3. “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Jesus advises against being consumed by worries about the future in the final section. Instead, he encourages his followers to focus on the present moment and the challenges it brings. Jesus emphasizes the transience of worldly concerns, underscoring the importance of living in the present and trusting in God’s guidance for each day. This passage in Matthew 6:31-34 underscores the timeless message of trust, faith, and prioritizing spiritual values over material possessions. It challenges believers to seek God’s kingdom above all else, reminding them of God’s provision, awareness of their needs, and the futility of excessive worry. This theme is echoed throughout the Bible, such as in Philippians 4:6-7, where believers are encouraged to present their requests to God with thanksgiving and experience His peace that surpasses all understanding. This message serves as a beacon of hope and a call to reorient one’s priorities towards God in a world filled with anxieties and uncertainties.

After Matthew 6

Jesus teaches his followers about the importance of seeking God’s kingdom above all else and trusting in His provision in this chapter. He warns against hypocrisy in acts of righteousness and encourages sincere and humble devotion to God. Jesus emphasizes the need for prayer, fasting, and storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth. He reminds his disciples not to worry about material needs but to seek first the kingdom of God. Let us prioritize our relationship with God above all else as we reflect on the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 6. We should seek His will in all that we do and trust in His provision for our needs. May we approach our acts of righteousness with sincerity and humility, keeping our focus on storing treasures in heaven. We will continue our journey through the Gospel of Matthew, heeding the words of Jesus and striving to live according to His teachings.