Here Jesus said, “Beware of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven” (Mt. 6:1). However, earlier Jesus said, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Mt. 5:16). Should we show others our good works or not?
There are two different types of actions being described here. The context shows how to interpret each statement.
Should we show our good works or not? | |
Matthew 5:16 | Matthew 6:1 |
Good works that give the credit to God | Good works that give credit to ourselves |
Others naturally notice our actions | We make others notice our actions (“do not sound a trumpet before you” Mt. 6:2—“so that they may be seen by men” Mt. 6:5) |
Serves when no one is looking | Serves only when others can see it |
Concerned to be used by God | Concerned with getting credit from people |
Gets a reward from God (Mt. 6:4) | Gets a reward from men (Mt. 6:2) |
James is an elder at Dwell Community Church, where he teaches classes in theology, apologetics, and weekly Bible studies.
