MATTHEW 6:1-4
Intro: I Cor. 3 13-15, Works to be manifested what sort they are Here in Matthew 6 we see how
we are living our lives in the presence of God.
I. THE TWO ASPECTS OF LIFE.
A. The religious life (1 - 18..
1. Our giving.
2. Our praying.
3. Our denying the flesh.
B. Our life in the world.
1. The cares of this world.
C. In all the relationship to God of utmost importance.
II. THIS IS A VERY REVEALING CHAPTER.
A. It challenges motives.
1. Why do l do what l do.
a. We are often self-deceived.
2. Self examination necessary.
B. The delicate balance of the Christian life.
1. "Let your light so shine before men.."
2. "Take heed that you do not your..."
C. The ultimate choice is pleasing God or pleasing self.
D. We need to be continually conscious of the presence of God.
Ill. THE QUESTION OF REWARDS.
A. Is it right to seek rewards?
1. "The Christian life should be lived only for its intrinsic value."
Statement of many.
2. Jesus encouraged us to consider rewards.
B. No reward from God for those who seek it from man.
1. If when I preach my chief concern is what people think of me, that's all
the reward I will receive.
IV. "TAKE HEED" WARNING ABOUT INSIDIOUS PRIDE.
A. Pride of mind.
1. I think more highly of myself than I should.
a. Look down on others as inferior.
B. Pride of will.
1. Discontent with what God has given me causing me to strive for more, or
better.
a. "I deserve better than this."
C. How to "take heed."
1. By self examination.
2. By realizing disastrous consequences of pride.
3. By reminding ourselves of Gethsemene and cross.
V. THE VALUE OF MY ACTION DETERMINED BY MOTIVE.
A. If I give because I do not wish to be thought a cheep skate.
B. If I give to impress people.
C. I must be conscious of God when I give.
1. Must seek His approval more than man's.
VI. HOW TO GlVE.
A. Wrong way.
1. Pharisees.
B. Right way.
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