Problem: 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?
Solution: 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? |
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Matthew 5:16 |
Matthew 6:1 |
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Good works that give the credit to God |
Good works that give credit to ourselves |
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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) |
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Serves when no one is looking |
Serves only when others can see it |
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Concerned to be used by God |
Concerned with getting credit from people |
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Gets a reward from God (Mt. 6:4) |
Gets a reward from men (Mt. 6:2) |
