Whedon's Commentary on the Bible - Matthew 6:1
a. Sincerity in alms. 1. Take heed Mark well this point of danger. Do alms The Greek word for alms, according to the best manuscripts, is a different word from alms in Matthew 6:2. The word literally signifies righteousness. According to the Jewish usage, the word included the three righteous external acts alms, prayer, and fasting; alms to thy neighbour, prayer to God, fasting to thyself. The precept in this verse, including all these three, requires that they should be done with an... read more
Wesley's Explanatory Notes - Matthew 6:1
In the foregoing chapter our Lord particularly described the nature of inward holiness. In this he describes that purity of intention without which none of our outward actions are holy. This chapter contains four parts, The right intention and manner of giving alms, Matthew 6:1-4 . The right intention, manner, form, and prerequisites of prayer, Matthew 6:5-15 . The right intention, and manner of fasting, Matthew 6:16-18 . The necessity of a pure intention in all things, unmixed either with the... read more