Matthew 6:7
Verse
Context
The Lord’s Prayer
6But 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.7And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard.8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions--"Babble not" would be a better rendering, both for the form of the word--which in both languages is intended to imitate the sound--and for the sense, which expresses not so much the repetition of the same words as a senseless multiplication of them; as appears from what follows. as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking--This method of heathen devotion is still observed by Hindu and Mohammedan devotees. With the Jews, says LIGHTFOOT, it was a maxim, that "Every one who multiplies prayer is heard." In the Church of Rome, not only is it carried to a shameless extent, but, as THOLUCK justly observes, the very prayer which our Lord gave as an antidote to vain repetitions is the most abused to this superstitious end; the number of times it is repeated counting for so much more merit. Is not this just that characteristic feature of heathen devotion which our Lord here condemns? But praying much, and using at times the same words, is not here condemned, and has the example of our Lord Himself in its favor.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions,.... Saying the same things over and over again, as the Heathens do, as the worshippers of Baal, from morning till noon, Kg1 18:26. This our Lord observes, to dissuade from such practices, because the Gentiles, who were odious to the Jews, used them, and the Jews were guilty of the same; had they not, there would not have been any need of such advice: for they think they shall be heard for their much speaking; as did the Jews, who, under pretence of "long prayers", devoured widows' houses; and with whom it is an axiom, that "everyone , that multiplies prayer is heard" (h); and whoever prolongs his prayer, his prayer does not return empty; and he that is long in prayer, his days are prolonged (i): and, according to their canons, every day a man ought to pray eighteen prayers. Moreover, their prayer books abound in tautologies, and in expressing the same things in different words, and by a multiplicity of them. (h) T. Hieros. Taaniot, fol. 67. 3. (i) Zohar in Exod. fol. 104. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:7-8 God cannot be coaxed by endless repetition. The Lord’s Prayer (6:9-13) is a model of simplicity in contrast with pagan wordiness.
Matthew 6:7
The Lord’s Prayer
6But 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.7And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard.8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christian Freedom: Branded but Not Bound
By Warren Wiersbe9.2K42:00FreedomMAT 6:1MAT 6:72CO 10:12GAL 6:12GAL 6:17In this sermon, the apostle Paul encourages believers to evaluate their own ministries using the word of God as a mirror. He warns against ministering in a legalistic way and emphasizes the importance of examining one's motives. Paul suggests four questions to ask in evaluating ministry: Is it based on the grace of God? Is the walk aligned with God's principles? Is it ministered by the Spirit of God? And is it focused on the cross of Christ? He emphasizes that the quality of ministry is determined by the heart and urges believers to prioritize a genuine relationship with God over external actions.
The Necessity of Secret Prayer
By David Wilkerson6.9K57:06Secret PrayerGEN 21:33MAT 6:4MAT 6:7In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of how God spoke to him about the amount of time he spent watching television. He felt convicted to give up watching TV and instead spend that time in prayer. He emphasizes the importance of seeking God with all our hearts and how it can lead to doors opening and our world expanding. The speaker also highlights the examples of biblical figures like Daniel and the importance they placed on prayer, even in their busy lives. He challenges listeners to prioritize prayer and not make excuses for not having enough time.
Genuine Prayer
By Paul Washer5.6K1:19:25PrayerMAT 6:7MRK 1:25MRK 1:28In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the book of Mark and its fast-paced narrative of Jesus' life. He highlights the use of the word "immediately" to describe Jesus' actions and the busy nature of his ministry. The preacher emphasizes the importance of spending time alone with Jesus and developing a personal relationship with him. He also discusses the need for passion and sincerity in worship and preaching, using examples to illustrate the impact of genuine devotion to God.
The Genuine Baptism of Fire
By Zac Poonen2.5K27:48GEN 22:2LEV 1:9MAT 6:7ACT 1:8ACT 2:3ROM 12:11CO 6:19PHP 1:21JAS 4:3This sermon emphasizes the importance of offering ourselves completely to God, drawing parallels between the burnt offering in Leviticus and the surrender of our lives to God as seen in Romans 12:1. It warns against seeking imitation fires or fake experiences in charismatic churches, stressing the need for genuine surrender and devotion to God to receive the true baptism of the Holy Spirit that transforms lives and frees from sin and worldly desires.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
A Danger Signal: Unanswered Prayer
By David Guzik1.3K1:03:00PRO 28:9MAT 6:72CO 12:71JN 3:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong prayer life and experiencing answered prayers. He encourages listeners to be aware of the danger signals and to wake up to the fact that they should be living lives of exciting answers to prayer. The speaker shares a story about Hudson Taylor, a missionary, who fervently prayed for his pay to be given to him on a specific day. Despite facing disappointment when the doctor couldn't pay him, Hudson Taylor remained grateful and trusted in God's provision. The sermon concludes with a call for listeners to have a bigger vision for their prayer lives and to trust in God's faithfulness.
The Essential Work of the Holy Spirit
By David Guzik9111:03:00PRO 28:9MAT 6:72CO 12:71JN 3:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong prayer life and experiencing answered prayers. He encourages listeners to be aware of the danger signals and to wake up to the fact that they should be living lives of exciting answers to prayer. The speaker shares a story about Hudson Taylor, a missionary, who fervently prayed for his pay to be given to him on a specific day. Despite facing disappointment when the doctor couldn't pay him, Hudson Taylor remained grateful and trusted in God's provision. The sermon concludes with a call for listeners to have a bigger vision for their prayer lives and to trust in God's faithfulness.
Soulish Religion
By Joshua Daniel81814:30SoulishPSA 141:2MAT 6:7MRK 4:14ROM 8:261TI 2:8HEB 4:12JAS 5:16In this sermon, Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of grounding ourselves in the realities of God's Word. He references Mark 4:14, highlighting the power of the Word of God to divide the soul and spirit. Daniel encourages listeners to examine their own spirituality, questioning whether their religion is soulish or spiritual. He shares a personal anecdote about a prayer meeting where someone honestly confessed their hypocrisy, emphasizing the need for humility before God. Daniel also addresses the danger of materialism and self-exaltation, urging listeners to prioritize the glory of God. He concludes with a prayer for forgiveness and strength for preachers to be faithful and courageous in their calling.
Sinful Praying
By Rolfe Barnard78629:09MAT 6:7MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 10:311PE 3:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of personal obedience to God's truth rather than simply going through the motions of prayer. He highlights the fact that as believers, we are called to be witnesses of Christ and that our lives should reflect this. The preacher also points out that God uses the witness of His people to save the lost, and therefore, the church should prioritize evangelism. He challenges the congregation to examine their prayer lives and ensure that their prayers align with God's will and bring glory to Him. The sermon references the story of Saul in 1 Samuel 13 to illustrate the need for genuine obedience and reliance on God.
Logos Ii - 26 feb.1995
By Peter Nicoll58929:44MAT 6:7MAT 24:141JN 5:13REV 7:9REV 8:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the urgency and responsibility of sharing the gospel with every person in the world. He highlights the importance of not just meeting physical needs, but introducing people to eternal life with God. The speaker also mentions the opportunity to serve and learn together in a Christian multicultural community, specifically on a ship ministry. He references Matthew 6:7, where Jesus teaches about prayer and warns against babbling like pagans, emphasizing the need for sincere and focused prayer.
The Sower Soweth the Word
By Joshua Daniel31214:34Word Of GodMAT 6:7MAT 22:37JHN 4:24ROM 3:23EPH 2:8HEB 4:12In this sermon, Joshua Daniel challenges the audience to examine whether the Word of God is being preached in its unadulterated form. He criticizes the division and denominational boundaries that exist in the Western world, comparing it to a zoo. Daniel emphasizes the importance of staying true to the scripture and not getting caught up in human interpretations or personal preferences. He warns against becoming too focused on worldly matters and losing sight of the true message of the Word of God.
Pray With an Honest Heart
By Carter Conlon29022:02HeartPSA 34:17PSA 145:18MAT 6:7MAT 6:33LUK 18:38EPH 4:8HEB 10:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that believers do not need to beg God to do what He has already accomplished through Jesus' victory. The speaker uses the analogy of a victorious king distributing spoils among his people to illustrate how Jesus has taken away all that hell had. The sermon highlights the importance of sincere and honest prayers, rather than relying on fancy or lengthy words. The speaker also addresses the need for believers to pray for deliverance from the influences of a godless agenda in society, particularly for the freedom and protection of children, high schoolers, and college students. The sermon references Luke 18 and Matthew 6:7 to support these teachings.
Prayer Undoing the Devil's Plan
By Shane Idleman1657:08Spiritual WarfareThe Power of Prayer2CH 7:14MAT 6:7Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical role of prayer in spiritual warfare, asserting that soft sermons and powerless prayers are insufficient in today's dire times. He calls for a return to fervent prayer, highlighting its power to undo the devil's plans and change the course of history, as seen in America's past. Idleman urges the congregation to engage in prayer as a priority, not just a routine, and to recognize it as a means of spiritual battle against demonic forces. He shares historical examples of prayer's impact, encouraging believers to rise up in righteous indignation and intercede for their families and nation. Ultimately, he reminds the church that true power lies in prayer, which can bring about revival and transformation.
Religious Word-Rationing
By A.W. Tozer1Authenticity in PrayerThe Power of the Holy SpiritPSA 19:14PRO 10:19ECC 5:2MAT 6:7ROM 12:1EPH 4:29COL 4:61TH 5:17JAS 1:191PE 3:15A.W. Tozer addresses the issue of 'religious word-rationing,' emphasizing that many religious individuals often use excessive words as a substitute for meaningful actions. He reflects on the tendency to speak eloquently in prayer meetings, where flowery language can overshadow genuine communication with God. Tozer encourages self-reflection and humility, advocating for a deeper awareness of God's presence to combat empty rhetoric. He highlights that true eloquence comes from the Holy Spirit, which inspires powerful words that lead to heartfelt responses and actions. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a reduction in empty words and an increase in authentic, Spirit-led communication.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Ii Chronicles 15:2
By Chuck Smith0Fellowship With GodSeeking God1SA 1:132CH 15:2PSA 10:4PSA 34:18PRO 8:17ISA 59:2JER 29:13MAT 6:7HEB 13:5JAS 4:8Chuck Smith emphasizes the profound truth that the Lord is with us as long as we are with Him, highlighting God's desire for fellowship and assistance in our lives. He explains that while God is always willing to bless us, it is often our own actions that create a separation, as seen in the examples of Adam and Samson. Smith encourages believers to seek God wholeheartedly, assuring that He will be found, contrasting true seeking with empty rituals. He warns that forsaking God leads to His forsaking us, urging listeners to take responsibility for their spiritual state rather than blaming God for their troubles.
A Pattern of Prayer
By Alexander Maclaren0The Power of PrayerTrusting in God's CharacterPSA 86:1MAT 6:7Alexander Maclaren emphasizes the significance of earnest prayer, contrasting it with vain repetition. He illustrates that true prayer arises from a deep sense of need and faith, as exemplified in Psalms 86:1-5, where the psalmist persistently calls upon God using various names that reflect His character. Maclaren encourages believers to approach God with their necessities, trusting in His mercy and character, and to expect joy and gladness as a result of their prayers. He highlights that the essence of prayer lies not in the formality of words but in the heartfelt connection to God, who is always ready to respond to those who earnestly seek Him.
Questions/answers on Prayer
By James Blaine Chapman0MAT 6:7MRK 11:24PHP 4:61TH 5:17JAS 5:161JN 5:14James Blaine Chapman addresses various questions related to prayer, emphasizing the importance of reverence in worship, the need to pray in Jesus' name, and the significance of persistently praying in alignment with God's will. He clarifies misconceptions about God's will in healing, prosperity, and judgment, highlighting the importance of faith and trust in God's higher will. Chapman also discusses the role of prayer in keeping oneself humble and true, the assurance of God hearing our prayers, and the impact of prayer on changing conditions for God to answer. He encourages continuous prayerful living and the earnestness in seeking God's will.
When We Wish to Suggest Our Wants to Persons of High Station
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PSA 51:17MAT 6:7PHP 2:31TH 5:17JAS 4:10St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of humility and reverence in prayer, comparing it to how we approach persons of high station with respect. He highlights the necessity of complete humility and pure devotion when supplicating to the Lord, emphasizing that it is not about saying a lot but about having a pure heart and tears of compunction. St. Benedict advises that prayers should be short and pure, unless divinely inspired to be prolonged, and in community settings, prayers should be brief and unified.
Eighth Letter
By Brother Lawrence0PSA 46:10MAT 6:7PHP 4:7COL 3:2JAS 4:10Brother Lawrence emphasizes the common struggle with wandering thoughts in prayer, attributing it to the roving nature of our minds. He suggests that the remedy for this is to confess our faults, humble ourselves before God, and avoid using excessive words in prayer. Instead, he encourages maintaining a quiet presence before the Lord, bringing back the mind in tranquility when it wanders. Brother Lawrence highlights the importance of keeping the mind focused on God throughout the day to ease re-collecting it during prayer.
March 29. 1678. the Parable of a Mill. in Vision.
By Jane Lead0PRO 3:5MAT 6:7ROM 8:26HEB 11:1JAS 1:5Jane Lead preaches about the importance of prayer and the need to approach God with sincerity and a heart open to His guidance. She emphasizes the significance of allowing the Holy Spirit to lead our prayers, ensuring they are aligned with God's will and purpose. Jane encourages believers to seek the wisdom and understanding of the Spirit in their petitions, rather than relying on empty words. She urges the congregation to have faith and trust in God's response to their prayers, surrendering to His divine plan.
Effective Prayer - James 5:16
By Jon Courson01KI 17:11KI 18:45MAT 6:7LUK 11:1JHN 15:7ROM 4:32CO 5:172CO 5:21JAS 5:16Jon Courson emphasizes the power and priority of prayer, using the example of Elijah to illustrate the effectiveness of effectual, fervent, and righteous prayers. He explains that effectual prayer is aligned with God's Word, fervent prayer involves persistence and deep relationship-building with God, and righteous prayer is based on faith in Jesus Christ. Courson encourages combining prayer with reading the Word to have engaging devotional times and to pray consistently with confidence in God's promises.
Matthew 6:5-8. Christ Forbids Ostentation in Prayer.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 145:18MAT 6:5MAT 6:7LUK 18:10ROM 8:26EPH 6:18PHP 4:61TH 5:17JAS 5:16Favell Lee Mortimer delves into the teachings of Jesus regarding prayer, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and humility in our communication with God. Jesus warns against praying for show and encourages private, heartfelt prayers as a true reflection of faith and love for God. Mortimer highlights that prayer is not just about words but about the genuine desires of our hearts, quoting a Christian poet to describe prayer as the soul's sincere desire. She also addresses the struggle of feeling spiritually dead at times and provides guidance on how to stir up desires for prayer through reflection on Scripture and the eternal truths revealed in it.
Proposals for Reform Ii
By Martin Luther0MAT 6:7MAT 15:11MAT 18:19MAT 23:131CO 7:231CO 10:25EPH 4:42TH 2:112TH 3:10Martin Luther delivers a sermon proposing reforms within the Church, addressing issues such as the abuse of power by prelates, the commercialization of religious practices like masses and indulgences, the tyranny of the papacy, and the need for unity with the Bohemians. Luther advocates for confession of secret sins to any brother or sister, the abolition of unnecessary festivals and pilgrimages, and the rejection of papal authority in favor of a more humble and loving approach to faith. He emphasizes the importance of truth, unity, and simplicity in Christian practice, urging for a return to the core teachings of the Gospel.
How to Keep Free in the Meeting
By John Hames0MAT 6:7John Hames emphasizes the importance of maintaining freedom and joy in the Spirit to fully enjoy religious services, despite Satan's attempts to hinder believers. He encourages believers to actively participate in meetings by giving testimonies, leading in prayer, and being present at every service. Hames also highlights the significance of tithing as a Christian duty, referencing Malachi 3:10 to show the blessings that come from faithful giving.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions--"Babble not" would be a better rendering, both for the form of the word--which in both languages is intended to imitate the sound--and for the sense, which expresses not so much the repetition of the same words as a senseless multiplication of them; as appears from what follows. as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking--This method of heathen devotion is still observed by Hindu and Mohammedan devotees. With the Jews, says LIGHTFOOT, it was a maxim, that "Every one who multiplies prayer is heard." In the Church of Rome, not only is it carried to a shameless extent, but, as THOLUCK justly observes, the very prayer which our Lord gave as an antidote to vain repetitions is the most abused to this superstitious end; the number of times it is repeated counting for so much more merit. Is not this just that characteristic feature of heathen devotion which our Lord here condemns? But praying much, and using at times the same words, is not here condemned, and has the example of our Lord Himself in its favor.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions,.... Saying the same things over and over again, as the Heathens do, as the worshippers of Baal, from morning till noon, Kg1 18:26. This our Lord observes, to dissuade from such practices, because the Gentiles, who were odious to the Jews, used them, and the Jews were guilty of the same; had they not, there would not have been any need of such advice: for they think they shall be heard for their much speaking; as did the Jews, who, under pretence of "long prayers", devoured widows' houses; and with whom it is an axiom, that "everyone , that multiplies prayer is heard" (h); and whoever prolongs his prayer, his prayer does not return empty; and he that is long in prayer, his days are prolonged (i): and, according to their canons, every day a man ought to pray eighteen prayers. Moreover, their prayer books abound in tautologies, and in expressing the same things in different words, and by a multiplicity of them. (h) T. Hieros. Taaniot, fol. 67. 3. (i) Zohar in Exod. fol. 104. 4.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:7-8 God cannot be coaxed by endless repetition. The Lord’s Prayer (6:9-13) is a model of simplicity in contrast with pagan wordiness.