The Commands of Christ - Matthew 6:5-8

"And when you pray, you shall not be like the hypocrites. For they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. And when you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. For they think that they will be heard for their many words. "Therefore do not be like them. For your Father knows the things you have need of before you ask Him. -Matthew 6:5-8

Who is this command to? Spoken to the multitudes and the disciples, instruction for Jesus' followers.

What does this command require?

Do not be like the hypocrites. When you pray, go into a secret place. Do not use vain repetitions in prayer like the heathens. Do not be like them.

What truths do we learn through this command?

We learn some interesting details about the heathens and the hypocrites. The heathens like to use vain repetitions because they think it will help them be heard. The hypocrites pray in a public place so that they may be praised by men for their 'spiritual prayers.'

We learn that God rewards and answers those who pray to Him in the secret place. God desires that people pray to Him with sincerity. He knows what we need, but He desires to have that communion with His children. What a comfort to know that God hears our sincere prayers and rewards us for our perseverance in prayer. James 5:17 says, "the effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much." May we always pray, and not give up.

What are the consequences for disobeying this command?

unanswered prayer, praise from men for praying in public, heathenish prayers, lack of reward from God.