What is the meaning of Matthew 6:6? But when you pray • Jesus assumes regular prayer, not optional (Luke 11:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Contrast with hypocrites who “love to pray standing in the synagogues” (Matthew 6:5); the issue is motive, not location. • Prayer is expected of every disciple—consistent, humble, relational (Psalm 62:8). go into your inner room • A private space fosters undistracted fellowship, echoing Jesus’ own habit of solitary prayer (Mark 1:35; Luke 5:16). • In Scripture, saints often withdrew to an enclosed place—think of Elijah on Horeb (1 Kings 19:9) or Daniel in his chamber (Daniel 6:10). • The “inner room” underlines sincerity: true communion over public impression (Zechariah 7:5-6). shut your door • Closing the door symbolizes shutting out worldly noise and human approval (Psalm 46:10). • Privacy protects conversation that belongs to God alone (2 Kings 4:33). • It also guards the heart from distraction, aligning thoughts with Philippians 4:6-7. pray to your Father, who is unseen • Prayer is relational: “Father” anchors us in adoption (Romans 8:15-16). • God’s invisibility reminds us that faith—not sight—drives prayer (Hebrews 11:27). • Intimacy is central; we come boldly because we are children, not performers (Ephesians 3:12; John 4:23-24). And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you • The Father’s omniscience assures us every whispered plea is heard (Proverbs 15:3; Hebrews 4:13). • Reward may include answered petitions, deeper joy, and eternal treasure (Hebrews 11:6; 1 John 5:14-15; Matthew 6:20). • God alone evaluates motives, bringing hidden faithfulness to light (1 Corinthians 4:5; 2 Chronicles 16:9). summary Matthew 6:6 calls believers to sincere, intimate, distraction-free prayer. Jesus urges us to withdraw from the press of public approval, enter a quiet place, and speak as cherished sons and daughters to our unseen yet all-seeing Father. In that secret fellowship He listens, evaluates motives, and graciously rewards the faith that seeks Him. |
    |