Matthew 6:18 meaning

Fasting is an act of personal discipline that encourages believers to focus on spiritual growth rather than public display. In the cultural context of Jesus’ time, fasting was often misused by some, particularly the Pharisees, who sought public admiration rather than genuine connection with God. This verse directly addresses the hypocrisy associated with such showy acts of worship. Jesus instructs His followers to maintain a private relationship with God during their fasting, emphasizing the importance of sincerity.

In Matthew 6:18, the emphasis is on performing religious acts in secret, suggesting that true righteousness is about what happens within one's heart and relationship with the Father. Jesus reassures that the Father, who sees in secret, will reward openly. This aligns with the broader theme in the Sermon on the Mount that warns against the pursuit of human approval at the expense of divine favor. Furthermore, it highlights that the essence of fasting is to draw nearer to God and seek His guidance, rather than to gain social status.