What does Matthew 6:18 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 6:18 is a part of Jesus' teachings during the Sermon on the Mount.

The verse instructs on the proper attitude of humility and sincerity when practicing fasting. Fasting in biblical times was a religious discipline meant to demonstrate repentance, seek God's favor, or prepare oneself for spiritual tasks.

This verse emphasizes the importance of fasting in a manner that seeks God's approval rather than public admiration.

It contrasts the outer appearance of piety with the inner reality of devotion to God who sees in secret.

The "Father which seeth in secret" refers to God's omniscience, perceiving the genuine intentions of the heart.

The promise that "thy Father... shall reward thee openly" implies that true spiritual rewards come not from human recognition but from God alone.

Historical Context

Matthew 6:18 is situated within the broader section of the New Testament known as the Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew chapters 5 through 7.

Delivered to His disciples and a crowd of followers, Jesus provides extensive teachings on a wide range of subjects, including the law, prayer, and fasting.

During the time of Jesus, Jewish religious life incorporated fasting as a common practice.

It was typically observed during periods of mourning, penitence, or supplication to God.

However, some individuals donned a disfigured appearance to conspicuously display their piety. The historical context of this verse underscores a correction of any hypocritical religious practices that were performed for public approval.

Theological Insights

Different theological traditions have interpreted Matthew 6:18 from varying perspectives:

• Traditional Protestant theology often views this verse as a repudiation of works-righteousness, emphasizing faith and sincerity over ritualistic observance.
• Catholic and Orthodox traditions may view fasting as inherently valuable, but agree that the intention behind fasting must be oriented towards God, avoiding vanity and pride.
• Liberation theology might highlight the social implications of fasting done in humility, aligning with concerns for the poor and marginalized without seeking recognition.

Across these traditions, the common theological understanding is that the integrity of one's relationship with God is what bears true spiritual fruit.

Practical Applications

Matthew 6:18 can be applied in various practical ways:

• In spiritual practice, individuals are reminded to engage in disciplines like fasting with humility and a focus on God rather than public recognition.
• In everyday life, this teaching encourages discretion and sincerity in charitable acts, motivating individuals to seek internal gratification over external validation.
• The verse underscores the value of inner transformation over outward appearances, pushing believers to cultivate a genuine heart posture toward God.

Cross-References

• Matthew 6:16 - "Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast.

Verily I say unto you, They have their reward."

• Matthew 6:4 - "That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly."
• Isaiah 58:6 - "Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke?"

Language Study

Key words in Matthew 6:18 from the original Greek language include:

• "ἐν τῷ φανερῷ" (en tōi phanerōi): Translated as "openly," it contrasts the secret and the visible zone.

It emphasizes the manifestation of what is hidden.

• "σου τῷ Πατρί" (sou tō patrí): Meaning "thy Father," reflecting a personal relationship with God.
• "ἐν τῷ κρυπτῷ" (en tōi krypto): Meaning "in secret," referring to the inner life unseen by others, but open before God.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparable practices and themes can be found in other cultural and religious contexts:

• Many other religious traditions, such as Islam during Ramadan and certain Hindu practices, emphasize the importance of sincerity in fasting and other religious observances.
• Ancient Greek and Roman philosophers also praised the merit of virtue that seeks no external reward, a concept echoed in the Christian teaching of humility.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective:

• Psychologists have discussed the concept of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, paralleling the biblical teaching that intrinsic, internal motivation (fasting for God) is more powerful and authentic than seeking external rewards (the approval of others).
• Research into the personal benefits of fasting touches on both physical health and mental clarity, suggesting benefits that align with the practice provided it is done with proper intention and guidance.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer diverse interpretations of Matthew 6:18:

• Some commentaries by evangelical scholars focus on the heart's posture during fasting, insisting that it is not the act itself but one's motivation that renders it genuine before God.
• Mainline Protestant commentaries might highlight the broader social teachings of the Sermon on the Mount, seeing this verse as part of a call to authentic living that challenges societal norms of status and recognition.
• Catholic commentaries often regard this verse as affirming the value of fasting as a spiritual discipline while cautioning against doing it for the wrong reasons, promoting inner transformation over outward piety.