Sermon On The Mount: True Religion Through Secret Devotion

Introduction: True Righteousness in Secret (6:1) 

1. Giving: Worship, Not Performance (6:2-4)

2. Praying: Sincerity, Not Show (6:5-15)

3. Fasting: For God, Not Pity (6:16-18)

Conclusion: The Secret Place: Where God Meets You (6:6)

 

Small Group Discussion Questions

1. Read Matthew 6:1 aloud. Jesus begins with “Beware.” Why do you think He uses such a strong warning about practicing righteousness to be seen by others? What does this tell us about the importance of motives?

    

2. The sermon contrasts false righteousness (performative, like the Pharisees) with true righteousness (God-centered, like the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14). How do the examples of giving, praying, and fasting in Matthew 6:1-18 illustrate this contrast?

    

3. The sermon references the Greek term hypokrites (meaning “actor”). How does thinking of hypocrisy as “playing a role” for human applause change the way you view your spiritual practices?

    

4. The sermon challenges us to ask, “Am I doing this to be seen, or for God to be seen through me?” How can you incorporate this question into your daily routine (e.g., before giving, praying, or serving)?