Matthew 6:17
Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)
Maar jy, wanneer jy vas, moet jy jou gesig was en jou hare kam
What Does This Mean?
This verse from the Sermon on the Mount tells us that when you fast, do not look gloomy like some religious people might. Instead, make yourself presentable and clean. Jesus is teaching us to serve God sincerely without seeking attention or praise.
Explained for Children
Imagine if your friend told everyone they were helping animals but then looked grumpy about it. That’s not really being nice, right? So when you do something good like fasting, just make sure you look happy and normal, because Jesus wants us to do things for God without showing off.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this passage around the end of the first century AD, directed primarily at Jewish Christians. In that time, people often fasted as a sign of devotion, but some did so to be seen by others, which was against Jesus' teaching.
Living It Out Today
Today, if you decide to skip meals for spiritual reasons, don’t act sad or make a big deal about it. Instead, go on with your day normally and treat yourself kindly like Jesus suggests here.
Topics
fastinghumilityhypocrisydevotiongenuine worshipspiritual practices
Related Verses
Luke 18:9-14Isaiah 58:3-7Ephesians 2:8-10Proverbs 16:2Matthew 6:1-4
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main message of Matthew 6:17?
The main message is that when you fast, do so genuinely without seeking to show off or gain attention from others. Your actions should be sincere and directed towards God.
How does this verse relate to other teachings in the Bible about fasting?
This verse ties into broader teachings on humility and sincerity. It encourages a spirit of genuine devotion rather than outward display, aligning with Jesus' emphasis on inner purity over external appearances.
What is the significance of anointing your head during fasting?
Anointing your head symbolizes treating yourself well and maintaining normalcy. It’s a practical way to avoid looking gloomy or drawing unnecessary attention, focusing instead on true devotion.
Can you give an example of how this verse might apply in modern life?
If someone decides to fast for spiritual reasons, they should do so quietly and normally. For instance, they could wear clean clothes and act cheerful, avoiding any display that makes them look like they are fasting.