Behind Closed Doorsنموونە

“Sermon On The Mount” Collection:

The Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5–7 is widely recognized as one of the most famous sermons Jesus ever delivered. As the first of five major discourses in Matthew’s Gospel, one of the central messages is clear: Jesus rules a Kingdom that is not of this world, and He calls us to live in a way that looks different from the world. Prayerfully, as we study Jesus’ words together, our understanding of His message will deepen—transforming us from the inside out.

Where We’re Going: How do you live when no one is watching?

Does your private life match the image you present to the world? In a culture obsessed with appearances, Jesus reminds us that what we do in secret reveals the true condition of our hearts.

In the “Behind Closed Doors” Bible study, we’ll walk through Matthew 6:1–24 and explore four key topics:

Day 1) Generosity (Matthew 6:1–4)

Day 2) Prayer (Matthew 6:5–15)

Day 3) Fasting (Matthew 6:16–18)

Day 4) Consumption (Matthew 6:19–24)

Prayerfully, as we continue our journey through the Sermon on the Mount, we will see the Holy Spirit heal the divide between our private life and public image!

Day 1) Generosity

Three Signs Of Genuine Generosity

1) Silence

“Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give to the needy, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward.” (Matthew 6:1-2 ESV)

When Jesus was ministering on earth, it was common for wealthy individuals to make loud displays of generosity in order to be seen by others. While their reward is the affirmation of those around them, the person who gives generously when no one is watching receives an eternal reward in heaven, along with the comfort of knowing they are living to please their heavenly Father, not the crowd. Behind closed doors, the way you give to others speaks volumes about your character.

2) Sacrifice

“But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing” (Matthew 6:3 ESV)

This statement expands upon the previous point about giving “silently.” Jesus emphasizes that generosity should be so discreet that it’s as if your left hand doesn’t even know what your right hand is doing. This level of humility requires sacrifice. It means giving without any expectation of earthly rewards, such as material benefit or verbal praise.

3) Surrender

“So that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:4 ESV)

Giving in secret means that our generosity is offered directly to God, and it reflects a heart that is surrendered to Him. When you trust God to meet your needs and guide your path, you can give confidently because you know that He is your true provider.

Big Idea: True generosity flows from a heart that seeks to honor God, not gain the approval of people. When we give silently, sacrificially, and with surrender, we reflect the character of our generous Father.

Let's Think About This:

Question 1) Why do you think Jesus emphasizes the importance of giving in secret rather than in public?

Question 2) In what ways is sacrificial giving different from casual or convenient giving?

Question 3) What does it look like in your life to give with a surrendered heart, trusting God to provide?