The Sermon on the Mount #11 - Christianity without Hypocrisy

The Sermon on the Mount #11:

Christianity without Hypocrisy

Text: Matt. 6:1-8

Thesis: To note the need for actions + attitude in order to be pleasing to God.

Introduction:

(1)    Why are you here tonight?  Why do you go to church?  Why do you do the good deeds that you do?

(2)    While one should be commended for doing good deeds, one must remember that his/her motivation ultimately determines the acceptability of that sacrifice before God.

Discussion:

I.                   The Dangers of False Righteousness:

A.    First, let us clarify what we mean by false righteousness.

1.      In our context, we are not talking about people who offer up unauthorized sacrifices although that is always unacceptable to God.

2.      In our context, we are talking about people who offer up authorized sacrifices with the intentions to be recognized by others.

B.     The problem with this type of righteousness is that the only reward that people who practice it receive is what recognition they get from others this side of eternity.

II.                The Rewards of True Righteousness:

A.    Obviously, true righteousness is just the opposite of false righteousness; therefore, it is offering up authorized sacrifices with the intentions of glorifying God regardless to whether anyone sees them.

B.     The benefit of this type of righteousness is that the people who practice it will be recognized and rewarded by God regardless of whether they receive any recognition from others this side of eternity.

C.     How to practice true righteousness:

1.      “Do not let your left know what your right hand is doing”

2.      “Go into your inner room, close your door”

Conclusion:

(1)   In other words, be a Christian and do good deeds simply because that is the right thing to do and be consistent in when and where you act this way.

(2)   Are you a Christian without hypocrisy?