Italian 2020 (La Sacra Bibbia Versione Riveduta 2020 (R2))
Guardatevi dal praticare la vostra giustizia davanti agli uomini per essere osservati da loro, altrimenti non ne avrete premio presso il Padre vostro che è nei cieli.
Cosa significa?
Jesus warns against doing good deeds just to impress others. He says if that's the case, God won't reward you for it because your motive is wrong.
Spiegato ai bambini
Imagine sharing your toys with a friend so everyone sees how nice you are. Jesus is saying that's not why we should do good things. We should do them just to help others and make God happy.
Contesto storico
Matthew, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus, wrote this gospel around AD 80-90 for Jewish Christians. The cultural context was a mix of Judaism and early Christian teachings in a Roman world.
Applicazione per oggi
In modern times, if you donate to charity and put it on social media just to show off your generosity, the real act of giving is less meaningful. True charity is done quietly without seeking recognition.
It means performing good deeds publicly, often with the intention of being seen by others and receiving praise or recognition from them.
Is there a right way to give charity according to this verse?
Yes, Jesus encourages giving in sincerity and humility without seeking public acknowledgment. The reward should be sought from God rather than people.
How can I avoid hypocrisy when doing good deeds?
To avoid hypocrisy, focus on the genuine desire to help others or glorify God, not for personal gain or recognition. Reflect on your motives and seek honest feedback from trusted friends.
Does this verse apply only to giving money?
No, it applies broadly to any form of good deed where the intention is to impress others rather than to serve God and help others sincerely.