Meaning of Matthew 6:3

This verse from Matthew's Gospel, spoken by Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount, instructs believers on the proper attitude and practice of almsgiving, or charity. The core of the instruction is to perform acts of generosity with such discretion and humility that the giver themselves remains largely unaware of the extent or impact of their own good deed. This is not a literal prohibition against knowing one's actions, but rather a powerful metaphor emphasizing the importance of pure motives and the avoidance of hypocrisy and self-congratulation when giving to the poor or needy. Jesus is contrasting genuine, selfless charity with the ostentatious displays of piety common in his day, where individuals would perform good deeds publicly to gain recognition and praise from others.

Context and Background

Jesus is addressing his disciples and a crowd, outlining the principles of a righteous life that surpasses the superficial righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees. This passage, Matthew 6:1-18, deals with three core religious practices: giving to the needy (almsgiving), prayer, and fasting. In each case, Jesus contrasts the way the religious elite performed these acts for human acclaim with the way his followers should practice them for God's eyes. The cultural context involved public acts of charity, sometimes announced with trumpets, to draw attention to the giver. Jesus is advocating for a radical shift from external performance to internal disposition.

Key Themes and Messages

The central message is about disinterested benevolence and the internal motivation behind good deeds. The primary theme is the importance of purity of heart in religious observance. Jesus is teaching that the why behind our actions is more significant than the what. The "left hand not knowing what the right hand is doing" signifies:

• Secrecy and Humility: The act of giving should be done without drawing attention to oneself.
• Lack of Self-Awareness (in a positive sense): The giver should be so focused on the needs of the recipient and the act of giving itself that they are not preoccupied with their own generosity or the credit they might receive.
• Genuine Compassion: True charity flows from a deep well of empathy, not from a desire for personal glory.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse calls for a profound detachment from worldly praise and a focus on pleasing God alone. It challenges believers to examine their motives for every act of kindness, service, or generosity. The application involves:

• Cultivating a Humble Spirit: Actively seeking opportunities to serve anonymously or without expectation of recognition.
• Guarding Against Pride: Being vigilant against the temptation to boast about one's good deeds, even to oneself.
• Prioritizing God's Approval: Understanding that true reward comes from God, not from human applause.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This teaching aligns with the overarching biblical emphasis on sincerity and integrity in one's relationship with God. The Old Testament prophets frequently condemned religious practices that were outward shows without inward transformation (e.g., Isaiah 1:11-17). Jesus' teaching here is a continuation and intensification of this prophetic call. It reflects the New Testament emphasis on the indwelling Spirit empowering believers to live a life pleasing to God from the heart, rather than through external adherence to rules. The concept of "treasure in heaven" (Matthew 6:20) is directly linked, as selfless acts, unseen by men, are those that are truly stored up with God.

Analogies

• A Secret Gift: Imagine giving a surprise gift to a loved one, ensuring they don't find out until they open it. The joy is in their surprise and happiness, not in telling them you bought it.
• A Hidden Spring: A pure spring of water flows freely and nourishes the land without announcing its presence or seeking applause for its life-giving properties.
• A Silent Gardener: A gardener who tends their plants with care and dedication, finding satisfaction in the flourishing life, without needing to advertise their efforts to passersby.

Relation to Other Verses

• Matthew 6:2-4: This verse is part of a larger section where Jesus contrasts hypocritical almsgiving with genuine almsgiving. Verses 2-4 specifically address the public nature of the hypocrites' giving.
• Matthew 6:19-21: This passage immediately follows the discussion on almsgiving, prayer, and fasting, emphasizing that true treasures are laid up in heaven, implying that actions done for God's recognition, not human praise, are the ones that have eternal value.
• 1 Corinthians 13:3: Paul writes, "If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing." This highlights that the motive (love) is paramount, even over the act itself.
• 2 Corinthians 9:7: "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." This verse emphasizes the heart's disposition in giving, aligning with Jesus' call for selfless giving.