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Matthew 6 begins a new movement within the Sermon on the Mount. After exposing the heart behind outward behaviour in Matthew 5, Jesus now turns to the motives behind religious practice. In Matthew 6:1-4, He speaks about giving and warns against doing righteous acts in order to be seen and praised by people.
This message considers the danger of spiritual performance. Giving can be a beautiful act of worship, mercy, and love, but it can also become a stage for pride when the heart seeks recognition. Jesus does not condemn giving. He condemns giving for the purpose of being noticed. The issue is not only what we do, but why we do it.
The call is to serve God quietly and sincerely, trusting the Father who sees in secret. This passage reminds us that kingdom righteousness is not measured by applause, visibility, or reputation. True giving flows from a heart that knows God, loves mercy, and seeks His reward rather than the approval of people.