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
Here Jesus transitions from giving to prayer, addressing another common religious practice—the act of praying. He critiques the “hypocrites” who love to pray standing in public places to be seen by others. The setting in synagogues and street corners reflects a culture where prayer could become a public performance, with long-form oration as a display of piety. The point remains: the motive behind prayer matters as much as the prayer itself. The warning that they have their reward echoes verse 2—public acknowledgment is their reward, not an audience with the Father. The larger context remains the reversal ethic of the Sermon on the Mount, where genuine righteousness is measured by inner disposition toward God rather than outward show.
Theologically, prayer is foundational to relationship with God. When prayer becomes showmanship, it distorts worship into spectacle and undermines intimacy with the Father. Jesus underscores that God sees in secret and responds to the genuine cry of the heart, not the performance of eloquence. This verse also introduces a corrective to spiritual pride: the ability to speak well in public does not equate to spiritual maturity. The Father’s reward is tied to sincerity, dependence, and a posture of childlike trust. It aligns with the broader biblical pattern that God’s chosen path often involves humility, vulnerability, and a quiet confession before Him.
Practical steps: cultivate private prayer life that is honest and unfiltered—journaling, meditative listening for God, or prayer with a trusted friend rather than broadcast prayer. In group settings, prize authenticity over theatrics; encourage concise, heartfelt petitions rather than long, elaborate displays. If you have influence in a faith community, model and teach prayers that reflect real needs, fears, and gratitude rather than polished performances. For personal life, set aside specific times and places for private dialogue with God, free from interruptions. This builds a resilient spiritual foundation that sustains you through public ministry when praise may come or go.
Cross-References: Matthew 6:6; Luke 18:9-14; James 5:16; Psalm 34:17