Matthew 6:5

And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.

Matthew 6:5 (KJV)

Context

Matthew 6:5 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches His disciples and the gathered crowd about righteous living. This verse follows His instruction on giving to the needy in secret and turns to the subject of prayer. Jesus begins with “And when thou prayest,” showing that prayer is expected and encouraged among believers, yet He immediately warns against the manner and motive of the hypocrites.

Meaning

The Greek word translated “hypocrites” originally referred to actors on a stage—those who play a part. Here, it describes people who pretend to be devout while their real aim is to be noticed and praised by others. They love to pray standing in the synagogues and at the corners of the streets, choosing public places where they can be seen. Their prayer is a performance for human approval rather than a genuine conversation with God.

Jesus’ warning targets the heart’s motive, not the physical posture or location of prayer. Standing to pray was not wrong in itself, nor was praying in public. The problem was the desire to be seen by men. Such prayer seeks human applause as its reward, and Jesus states plainly, “Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” The praise they receive from people is the only reward they will get; they have already received their payment in full.

Biblical connections

In the following verse, Jesus instructs His disciples to enter their room, shut the door, and pray to the Father who sees in secret, promising that the Father will reward openly (Matthew 6:6). This contrast shows that genuine prayer is directed to God, not to an audience. The Father’s reward is of far greater value than the fleeting approval of people.

Application

• Private Prayer: Jesus encourages His disciples to engage in private prayer, emphasizing its importance. In the subsequent verse (Matthew 6:6), He instructs them to go into their rooms, shut the door, and pray to the Father who sees in secret. Private prayer allows for intimacy, authenticity, and a focus on personal communion with God.

• Sincere Motives: Jesus stresses the significance of sincere motives in prayer. True prayer is not about impressing others or seeking their approval but about connecting with God and aligning our hearts with His will.

• Avoiding Hypocrisy: Believers should be cautious not to fall into the trap of hypocrisy, performing religious acts merely for public recognition. Genuine faith involves consistent alignment between one’s actions, attitudes, and personal relationship with God.

• Internal Rewards: Jesus contrasts the temporary and superficial rewards received through public recognition with the eternal rewards that come from an authentic relationship with God. The latter brings spiritual growth, peace, and a sense of God’s presence in one’s life.

Reflection

Jesus’ words call us to examine our own hearts when we pray. Do we seek the approval of others, or do we seek the presence of God? The reward of the hypocrites is immediate but empty. The reward of the Father who sees in secret is lasting and true. Let us pray with sincerity, knowing that our Father hears and rewards what is done for Him alone.