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Verse Takeaways
1
The Actor's Mask
Commentators explain that the Greek word for “hypocrite” originally referred to a stage actor who wore a mask. Jesus uses this term for those who perform religious acts, like giving, not from a sincere heart but for the “glory of men.” Their piety is a performance designed to win human applause, masking a heart that isn't truly seeking God.
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Matthew
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Commentaries
11
Albert Barnes
On Matthew 6:2
18th Century
Theologian
Do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do. The word hypocrite is taken from stage-players, who act the pa…
AT Robertson
On Matthew 6:2
Sound not a trumpet (μη σαλπισηις). Is this literal or metaphorical? No actual instance of such conduct has been found in the Jewi…
Charles Spurgeon
On Matthew 6:2
19th Century
Preacher
Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they m…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On Matthew 6:2
While some in Jesus’ day believed almsgiving earned merit, ostentation rather than merit theology is the point here. Jesus assumes his disciples wi…
John Calvin
On Matthew 6:2
16th Century
Theologian
When thou doest alms—He expressly reproves a long-established custom, in which the desire for fame could not only be perceived by the eye …
John Gill
On Matthew 6:2
17th Century
Pastor
Wherefore, when you do your alms
Christ proceeds to give some directions and cautions about giving of alms, that the…
Matthew Henry
On Matthew 6:1–4
17th Century
Minister
Our Lord next warned against hypocrisy and outward show in religious duties. What we do must be done from an inward principle, so that we may be ap…
Thomas Aquinas
On Matthew 6:1–4
13th Century
Philosopher
Take heed that you do not your justice before men. Above, the Lord fulfilled the Law regarding the precepts; now He begin…