Matthew 6:1-34

Contents: Sermon on the Mount, continued. Formalism condemned. The new revelation of prayer (disciples prayer). The law of riches. Cure of anxiety.

Characters: God, Jesus.

Conclusion: True relationship to God will be manifested by a motive of heart devotion to God back of all charity to men, by absolute sincerity and humility in the prayer life, by laying up heavenly treasures and by absolute confidence in the Heavenly Father to supply all real needs and overcome all troubling circumstances.

Key Word: Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 5:2. Prayer, Matthew 6:5.

Strong Verses: Matthew 6:1; Matthew 6:6; Matthew 6:8; Matthew 6:9-13; Matthew 6:19; Matthew 6:20; Matthew 6:21; Matthew 6:33; Matthew 6:34.

Striking Facts: Matthew 6:8-13. Rather than the «Lord's prayer,» this should be designated as «the diciple's prayer,» for Jesus could not pray this prayer as the expression of His own needs.

It should be remembered also that it is not based upon the atoning work of the cross, which at the time it was given, was yet future. Christ's finished work which makes possible deliverance from sin, should be thought into this prayer when used by the Christian. It is a model of what true prayer is (1) Puts the Father's interest before personal interests. (2) Puts earthly needs in right proportion to spiritual needs. (3) Bases prayer upon relationship. (4) Trusts God for present needs, not worrying about the morrow.