Matthew 6:16
Afrikaans 2020 (Die Bybel 2020-vertaling)
“Wanneer julle vas, moenie soos die skynheiliges met hulle lang gesigte wees nie, want hulle trek hulle gesigte, sodat die mense kan sien dat hulle vas. •Amen, Ek sê vir julle: Hulle het reeds hulle volle beloning ontvang.
What Does This Mean?
In Matthew 6:16, Jesus teaches that fasting should not be done to impress others. He warns against making a sad face or trying to look miserable so people notice your fasting. The key message is that true devotion comes from the heart and doesn’t need outward show.
Explained for Children
Imagine you're playing a game where everyone pretends they don't like candy, but only because they think it'll make them look cool. Jesus says this isn't right when we fast. He wants us to be sincere, not just trying to impress others with our sad faces.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote his Gospel in the late first century for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus addresses common religious practices like fasting and gives deeper spiritual meaning to them. In ancient Jewish culture, fasting was seen as a way to show devotion.
Living It Out Today
Consider a scenario where someone posts on social media about giving up something for Lent but makes sure everyone knows it. This verse reminds us that our actions should be genuinely motivated by faith rather than seeking admiration or praise from others.
Topics
fastinghypocrisymotivationdevotionfaithappearance vs reality
Related Verses
Isaiah 58:3-7Luke 18:9-14Colossians 2:16-23Matthew 23:25-28Mark 2:18-20
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Jesus mention hypocrites specifically in this verse?
Jesus mentions hypocrites to highlight the difference between genuine devotion and outward show. He emphasizes that true fasting should come from a sincere heart, not just to impress others.
What does it mean to 'disfigure their faces' during fasting?
Disfiguring one’s face refers to making extreme physical appearances or behaviors as if they are suffering greatly. This was often done by some religious people to appear more pious and gain recognition from others.
Can I still tell others that I am fasting?
Yes, but the intention behind sharing should not be for self-promotion or seeking admiration. The key is sincerity in your faith practices without the need for external validation.
What are some ways to practice fasting sincerely according to this verse?
Practicing fasting sincerely involves focusing on God and your spiritual needs rather than what others think. It means fasting privately, without making a show of it, and seeking God's rewards, not human praise.