As we continue our study through the Sermon on the Mount, we arrive at Matthew 6:16. At this point in the discourse, Jesus continues to move from internal attitudes to outward expressions of faith. His teaching is rich and layered, and it’s worth slowing down to absorb its full meaning. The Sermon on the Mount isn’t meant to be skimmed. It invites deep reflection and personal transformation.
In chapter five, Jesus laid the foundation for what we might call “heart righteousness”—a life shaped by inward devotion to God. Now in chapter six, He explores how that righteousness is expressed in outward practices: giving to the poor, praying, and fasting. Each of these disciplines represents a sphere of our lives. Giving connects us to others. Prayer draws us to God. Fasting humbles us before ourselves and before the Lord.
These three practices—almsgiving, prayer, and fasting—form a complete picture of the spiritual life. Giving concerns our relationship with others. Prayer concerns our relationship with God. Fasting concerns our relationship with ourselves—specifically, our self-discipline and willingness to be humbled.
But Jesus draws a sharp distinction between how these practices are approached. He contrasts the hypocritical, Pharisaic approach with the quiet, sincere obedience that pleases God. Hypocrites turn spiritual disciplines into performances. They give, pray, and fast with the hope of being seen and praised by others. Their reward is exactly that—public recognition. Nothing more.
Jesus repeats a sobering phrase three times: “Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full” (6:2, 6:5, 6:16). It is a warning. If your aim is to impress people, you might succeed—but you will miss the deeper reward that comes from the Father who sees in secret. Your audience shapes your intention. If your audience is the crowd, your life becomes a performance. But if your audience is God, your life becomes worship.