Matthew 6:1

Take heed. From a discussion of true righteousness (ch. 5) Christ now turns to the practical application of righteousness to the duties of the citizen of the kingdom of heaven (ch. 6; see DA 312). Christians are to avoid making a show of their acts of worship and benevolence. In three examples — acts of charity (vs. 2-4), prayer (vs. 5-8), and fasting (vs. 16-18) — Jesus contrasts the old practices of Judaism with the exalted ideals of the kingdom of heaven (see on Matt. 5:22; Mark 2:21, 22).

Alms. Gr. eleemosune, “almsgiving.” Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 146) the reading dikaiosune, “righteousness,” or “piety.” Either meaning fits the context. If the reading “righteousness” is adopted, then the three specific illustrations of almsgiving, prayer, and fasting are intended to be examples of the principle stated in v. 1.

The three illustrations given probably represent the three most commonly observed forms of Pharisaic “righteousness.” It should be observed that Christ in no way objects to religious acts; He is concerned only that they be prompted by pure motives and be performed without ostentation.

Before men. That is, paraded before them with the objective of attracting their attention and admiration (see on v. 2).

To be seen. Gr. theaomai, “to gaze upon,” “to see.” The English words “theater” and “theatrical” are from this root. Pious acts performed “before men, to be seen of them,” were designed to earn the adulation of men.

Of your Father. Literally, “from the side of your Father.”