Don’t Do Alms to be seen of Men

2001028

Topic # 556 (Sermon on the Mount)

Introduction:

A.    Chapter 6 of Matthew could be entitled: the disciple in relation to God.

1.     6:1-15 - He lives in the presence of God.

2.      6:16-24 - He practices submission to God.

3.      6:25-34 - He realizes dependence upon God.

B.    6:1-34

C.   We are not to be of this world – we are citizens of a different kingdom – children of God.

1.     But we live in a world concerned about food/clothing/etc.  We are subject to the cares of this world.

2.     There is a delicate balance in Christianity.  We’ll illustrate this in more detail as we go along.

a)     There is a balance as to how we are to act/live/behave as Christians.

b)    While we are to work for the Lord, we must note:

D.   The general principle laid down in 6:1 – beware of your righteousness before men.

1.     In 6:2-4; 6:5-8; 6:16-18 – almsgiving; prayer; fasting.

2.     These three areas of life are symbolic of our lives.

a)     What we do for others:

b)    Our communion with God

c)     Our self-denial of wants/desires/etc.

3.     Must make sure that we don’t do these things to receive the praise of men.

 

I.  The Christian life is one of a delicate nature.

A.    It = often a matter of balance & poise.

1.     Contrast 5:16 & 6:1

2.     Are these two passages contradictory?

a)     Might ask: what do I do?  If I do all these things in private – how can people see my good works?

b)    I don’t believe there = contradiction here.

B.    Again it = delicate balance.

1.     One to live so that those who see him glorify God.

2.     But…we not to try to attract attention to ourselves.

C.   Ultimate choice – between pleasing God & self.

1.     Why do we seek to please others?

a)     If we please others – we make them think more of us.

b)    Not careful – what appears to be selfless is a subtle form of selfishness!

2.     We must examine our motives!

 

II. the Most important part of our Christian life is to realize our relationship with God!

A.    Jesus did.

1.     Jhn. 5:30; 14:10; 6:38; 8:29; Mt. 26:39

2.     He never tried to attract attention to Himself – He just did what necessary to be pleasing to God.

B.    We are always in the presence of God.

1.     Lk. 16:15

2.     When we awake – we should remind ourselves that we are in the presence of God – and will be the entire day!

3.     Heb. 4:13

C.   Our relationship with God must become personal – something real, meaningful.

1.     We must be willing to please Him no matter what!

2.     Must do right at all times!

 

III. When we serve God – there are 2 ways to do it.

A.    Wrong way:

1.     6:2

2.     Some broadcast what they are doing – “Look at me!” Etc.

3.     Must guard against broadcasting ANY service before God!

B.    Right way:

1.     6:3-4

2.     Do not broadcast to others what you do.

a)     Do not even boast of it to yourself.

b)    Some like Pharisees – Lk. 18:11

c)     Remember – God keeps the records – not us!

C.   We must be concerned w/the motives b/h the things we do.  This is the main point!

 

Conclusion:

A.    Do things for God w/wrong motives – all for naught!

1.     6:1 – have no reward.

B.    NT emphasizes rewards for the faithful Christian.

1.     Mt. 5:8; Heb. 12:2; 11:10, 16, 26

C.   Two things about rewards:

1.     It is proper to seek them!

2.     Those who seek them from men will have no reward from God!

D.   Are you seeking a reward?  If so – what are the motives behind your service?

1.     Let us always remember that we are in the presence of God.

2.      Our chief goal needs to be to please Him!

E.  I N V I T A T I O N