How we cite our quotes: (Chapter:Verse)
Quote #1
So whenever you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, so that they may be praised by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward. (NRSV 6:2)
Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (KJV 6:2)
Jesus is not a fan of showoffs. Here's a question: does this mean that when we make a donation to that friend of ours who's running a marathon to support the American Cancer Society, we're supposed to do it anonymously? Or does this rule only apply to religious stuff?
Quote #2
"And whenever you pray, do not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, so that they may be seen by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward." (NRSV 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. (KJV 6:5)
You can see that hypocrisy, according to Matthew's Jesus, means putting on a show when participating in any act of religious devotion. How's that different from how we think of hypocrisy today?
Quote #3
And whenever you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces so as to show others that they are fasting. (NRSV 6:16)
Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. (KJV 6:16)
It seems like the hypocrites always want to be the center of attention so that others can praise them for their piety. Here's the thing: their intentions are the exact opposite of piety. And Jesus won't let them off easy.