Summary of the Passage (Matthew 6:1-4):

Jesus once again promotes humility and trusting in God’s counter-cultural lifestyle, just as He has in the previous weeks. This time, Jesus discusses giving to the needy and how this action should stem from a love for God and understanding of who He is instead of a desire to be praise by God or man for “being a good person.” He promises us in verse 4 that our Father will see us in secret and that will be enough.

Discussion Questions:

1. Verse 1: Prideful Giving

- What is wrong with wanting the glory for ourselves? What harm can come upon us and others if we exalt ourselves above God?

2. Verse 2: Earthly Versus Heavenly Rewards

- What reward do you think the hypocrites have already received? How is this reward less than the reward our Father in Heaven will grant us?

3. Verse 3: Left and Right Hands

- What does the hyperbole of the hands mean?

4. Verse 4: Secret Serving

- In your hard of hearts, do you truly trust that God sees you and that you do not have to win the approval of Him or others? What would change in your life if you lived like you truly believed this verse?