1. Matthieu 6:3–4 (NEG79)
  2. Explication du texte

Should all Christian giving be completely secretive?

Matthieu 6:3–4 (NEG79)

3 Mais quand tu fais l'aumône, que ta main gauche ne sache pas ce que fait ta droite,

As with Jesus’ other examples and explanations, we should recognize that he is making use of rhetorical overstatements. For the sake of memorization and emphasis, he makes use of metaphors and examples that will highlight the primary principle he seeks to convey. In this case, the principle is that giving must be done to please God and not for the sake of winning attention and approval of men. This does not mean that all Christian giving must always be completely secretive, though it certainly suggests that secrecy should be preferred.