Matthew 6:16

Spanish Version Is Called = Free Bible Version or (Versión Biblia Libre = VBL) - Public Domain - http://www.freebibleversion.org/ - Copyright © 2018 Jonathan Gallagher y Shelly Barrios de Avila

“Cuando ayunen, no sean como los hipócritas que ponen caras tristes y un semblante espantoso para que todos vean que están ayunando.

¿Qué significa esto?

In Matthew 6:16, Jesus teaches that fasting should not be done to impress others. He warns against making a sad face or trying to look miserable so people notice your fasting. The key message is that true devotion comes from the heart and doesn’t need outward show.

Explicado para niños

Imagine you're playing a game where everyone pretends they don't like candy, but only because they think it'll make them look cool. Jesus says this isn't right when we fast. He wants us to be sincere, not just trying to impress others with our sad faces.

Contexto histórico

Matthew wrote his Gospel in the late first century for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount where Jesus addresses common religious practices like fasting and gives deeper spiritual meaning to them. In ancient Jewish culture, fasting was seen as a way to show devotion.

Aplicación para hoy

Consider a scenario where someone posts on social media about giving up something for Lent but makes sure everyone knows it. This verse reminds us that our actions should be genuinely motivated by faith rather than seeking admiration or praise from others.

Temas

• fasting
• hypocrisy
• motivation
• devotion
• faith
• appearance vs reality

Versículos relacionados

• Isaiah 58:3-7
• Luke 18:9-14
• Colossians 2:16-23
• Matthew 23:25-28
• Mark 2:18-20

Preguntas frecuentes

Why did Jesus mention hypocrites specifically in this verse?

Jesus mentions hypocrites to highlight the difference between genuine devotion and outward show. He emphasizes that true fasting should come from a sincere heart, not just to impress others.

What does it mean to 'disfigure their faces' during fasting?

Disfiguring one’s face refers to making extreme physical appearances or behaviors as if they are suffering greatly. This was often done by some religious people to appear more pious and gain recognition from others.

Can I still tell others that I am fasting?

Yes, but the intention behind sharing should not be for self-promotion or seeking admiration. The key is sincerity in your faith practices without the need for external validation.

What are some ways to practice fasting sincerely according to this verse?

Practicing fasting sincerely involves focusing on God and your spiritual needs rather than what others think. It means fasting privately, without making a show of it, and seeking God's rewards, not human praise.