Matthew 6:6

But when you pray, go into your inner room, shut your door, and pray to your Father, who is unseen. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Study Bible

But when you pray
The phrase "But when you pray" indicates an expectation of prayer as a regular practice for believers. The Greek word for "pray" here is "προσεύχομαι" (proseuchomai), which implies a direct and personal communication with God. This suggests that prayer is not merely a ritual but a heartfelt dialogue with the Creator. Historically, prayer has been a cornerstone of Jewish and Christian life, reflecting a deep dependence on and relationship with God.

go into your inner room
The "inner room" refers to a private, secluded place. The Greek term "ταμεῖον" (tameion) can mean a storeroom or a private chamber, emphasizing the importance of privacy in prayer. In the historical context of first-century Judea, homes often had a small room used for storage or privacy. This instruction underscores the value of intimacy and focus in prayer, away from distractions and the eyes of others.

shut your door
"Shut your door" further emphasizes the need for privacy and concentration. The act of closing the door symbolizes shutting out the world and its distractions, creating a sacred space for communion with God. This action reflects a deliberate choice to prioritize time with God, highlighting the personal and intimate nature of prayer.

and pray to your Father
The phrase "pray to your Father" highlights the relational aspect of prayer. The use of "Father" (Greek: "πατήρ," pater) signifies a close, familial relationship with God, who is approachable and loving. This term would have resonated deeply with Jesus' audience, who understood the father-child relationship as one of care, provision, and authority.

who is unseen
"Who is unseen" acknowledges the invisible nature of God. The Greek word "ἀόρατος" (aoratos) means not visible to the human eye, reminding believers that faith is required to engage with God. This unseen presence assures believers that God is always near, even when not physically visible, encouraging trust and reliance on His omnipresence.

And your Father, who sees what is done in secret
This phrase reassures believers that God is omniscient, fully aware of all actions, even those hidden from human view. The Greek word "βλέπω" (blepo) for "sees" implies a deep, penetrating vision. This assurance of God's awareness provides comfort and accountability, knowing that sincere, private devotion is valued by God.

will reward you
The promise "will reward you" speaks to the certainty of God's response to sincere prayer. The Greek word "ἀποδίδωμι" (apodidomi) for "reward" suggests a giving back or recompense. This reward is not necessarily material but can be spiritual, such as peace, guidance, or a deeper relationship with God. Historically, this assurance would have encouraged early Christians facing persecution, reminding them that their faithfulness would not go unnoticed by God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, providing instruction on how to pray.

2. The Father
Refers to God, who is unseen but sees what is done in secret.

3. Inner Room
A metaphorical or literal place of privacy where one can pray without distraction.

4. Prayer
The act of communicating with God, emphasized here as a private and sincere practice.

5. Reward
The outcome of sincere prayer, as promised by God.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Privacy in Prayer
Jesus emphasizes the need for a private setting to foster genuine communication with God, free from distractions and the temptation to seek human approval.

God's Omniscience and Intimacy
The verse reassures believers that God sees and values what is done in secret, highlighting His omniscience and the personal relationship He desires with each individual.

Sincerity Over Show
The focus is on the heart's intention rather than outward appearances. True prayer is about connecting with God, not impressing others.

The Promise of Reward
God promises to reward those who seek Him sincerely in prayer. This reward may not always be material but can include peace, guidance, and spiritual growth.

Developing a Consistent Prayer Life
Encourages believers to establish a regular, private prayer routine, fostering a deeper relationship with God and spiritual maturity.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does the "inner room" symbolize in your personal prayer life, and how can you create a space for private prayer?

2. How does understanding God's omniscience affect your approach to prayer, knowing that He sees what is done in secret?

3. In what ways can you ensure that your prayers are sincere and not for the approval of others?

4. How do the promises of God’s reward in Matthew 6:6 encourage you to maintain a consistent prayer life?

5. How can you apply the principle of private prayer in Matthew 6:6 to other areas of your spiritual life, such as Bible study or worship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 6:5
This verse contrasts public prayer for show with the private prayer described in Matthew 6:6, emphasizing sincerity over outward appearances.

Psalm 91:1
This verse speaks of dwelling in the secret place of the Most High, paralleling the idea of seeking God in private.

Hebrews 11:6
Highlights the importance of faith in approaching God, which aligns with the unseen nature of the Father in Matthew 6:6.

James 4:8
Encourages drawing near to God, which can be related to the intimate setting of private prayer.

1 Thessalonians 5:17
Advises believers to pray without ceasing, which complements the personal and ongoing nature of prayer in Matthew 6:6.