Exploring the Heart of Service: Privacy, Purpose, and Public Witness

Privacy, Purpose, and Public Witness

A key principle of biblical interpretation is that we should not interpret one scripture passage in isolation against another, often referred to as “Scripture interpreting Scripture” or “the unity of Scripture.” This means understanding each passage within the broader context of the entire Bible, rather than using it to contradict other teachings.

Keeping this in mind, we often experience a tension between two seemingly opposing commands: the instruction to do good in secret, seeking divine approval (Matthew 6:3-4), and the command to let our light shine so that others may glorify our Father in heaven through our good works (Matthew 5:16). Sometimes, in an attempt to be pious, many people cultivate a conviction that actually causes them to disobey other portions of Scripture. So, how do we reconcile these two commands? Is there a real tension or rather a matter of focus and motivation? Let’s briefly examine these foundational verses through an expository lens:

Matthew 6:3-4: The Secret Light of Giving

Observation (v. 3): Jesus instructs that when giving to the needy, the giver should be so discreet that their left hand is unaware of the action of their right hand. This emphasizes a complete lack of desire for personal recognition.

Interpretation (v. 3): This hyperbolic statement underscores the need for pure motives in giving. Jesus isn’t literally suggesting our hands operate independently, but rather that our actions should be devoid of any intention to garner human praise or attention. The focus is to be solely on the act of generosity itself and the pleasure of God.

Application (v. 4): The promise is that “your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” This highlights that the primary audience for our secret acts of service is God, and our true reward comes from Him, not from human acknowledgment. This encourages a heart that seeks divine approval above earthly applause.

Considering the inherent human inclination towards seeking validation, this directive for private acts of service serves as a vital corrective. Engaging in benevolence without expectation of external recognition cultivates humility and refines our focus toward divine approval. This private engagement fosters a deeper spiritual accountability, where the primary reward sought is the intrinsic satisfaction of obedience and the unseen acknowledgment of God.

Matthew 5:16: The Public Light of Witness

Observation (v. 16): Jesus commands, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This shifts the focus from the privacy of the act to its public impact.

Interpretation (v. 16): Our “light” symbolizes the transformative power of God working within us, made visible through our good deeds. The purpose of this visibility is not self-promotion but to serve as a testimony to God’s character. When others witness our acts of love, compassion, and justice, they are directed to recognize the source of such goodness – our Father in heaven.

Application (v. 16): The desired outcome is that observers “may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” This emphasizes that our public actions should consistently point beyond ourselves to God, inspiring praise and recognition of His glory.

Conversely, the intentional visibility of good works, when motivated by a genuine desire to glorify God, serves as a powerful form of witness. When our actions are transparently driven by gratitude and a commitment to reflecting Christ’s character, they can inspire others and direct attention to the ultimate source of goodness. The crucial difference lies in our motivation: are we seeking personal praise or aiming to glorify God through our actions?

Ask Yourself:

When I’m helping people, does a part of me secretly want them to notice? How can I learn to do it just to please God?

Are there chances for me to do good things quietly that I’m missing? How can I be generous when nobody else is looking?

When people see me doing good, what do I really want? Am I trying to make myself look important, or am I trying to bring honor to God? How can I tell the difference?

What are some real ways my actions in front of people could make them want to know God better and praise Him? Am I thinking about that when I am serving or helping others?

Is there a good balance in my life between doing good secretly and doing good where people can see? Am I doing too much of one and not enough of the other?

In the end, both the quiet way and the public way of doing good have their place in God’s plan. Doing things secretly helps us keep our hearts right and pure, while doing things publicly can show the hope of the Gospel to everyone. The important thing is to always check why we’re doing what we’re doing, making sure that whether we’re in the shadows or in the spotlight, our main goal is to glorify God in helping others while pointing them to Christ.