How Jesus Teaches Us to Value Sincerity Over Show
Virtue signaling is a phrase we hear a lot these days, but it’s been around for a long time—even in the days of Jesus. Virtue signaling is defined as the public expression of opinions or sentiments intended to demonstrate one’s good character or social conscience or the moral correctness of one’s position on a particular issue. Simply put, virtue signaling means doing good things mainly to be seen and praised by others, rather than out of genuine love or devotion. It’s about putting on a show of righteousness, instead of truly living it. The Bible warns us against this kind of behavior, calling it hypocritical and reminding us that God cares more about our hearts than our public appearances.
Jesus’ Teachings: Matthew 6:1-4—Performative Righteousness vs. True Sincerity
In Matthew 6:1-4, Jesus addresses the issue head-on. He says: “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.” He’s not saying we shouldn’t do good things, but He’s warning us about the motive behind our actions. Are we helping others because we love them, or because we want applause? Jesus teaches that the best acts are those done quietly, without fanfare. He even tells us, “When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” In other words, keep it low-key—God sees, and that’s enough.
Different translations of Matthew 6:1 bring out this idea. The New International Version emphasizes “to be seen by them,” while the King James Version says, “to be seen of men.” The core message is the same: righteousness shouldn’t be a performance for others. Jesus was speaking during the Sermon on the Mount, addressing people who lived in a culture where public displays of piety were common. He wanted His followers to break free from the habit of doing good just for show.
The Pharisee and Tax Collector: Luke 18:9-14—A Contrast of Motives
Jesus illustrated this warning with the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. In Luke 18:9-14, the Pharisee stands in the temple, loudly thanking God that he’s not like other people, listing all his religious achievements. The tax collector, meanwhile, quietly asks God for mercy, admitting his faults. Jesus says it’s the humble tax collector—not the boastful Pharisee—who goes home justified before God. This story is a clear reminder that God values sincerity and humility, not flashy displays of virtue.
True Virtue: 1 John 3:18—Actions and Truth Over Words
Another important lesson comes from 1 John 3:18: “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” This scripture challenges us to move beyond talking about goodness and actually live it out. It’s not enough to say the right things or look the part; true virtue is shown through genuine action, motivated by love and honesty.
Context and Interpretation: Matthew 6:1—Sermon on the Mount, Translations, and Meaning
Matthew 6:1 sits at the heart of Jesus’ famous Sermon on the Mount, a teaching that covers how to live a life pleasing to God. Jesus was addressing a crowd familiar with religious leaders who often practiced their faith in very public ways—praying loudly, giving conspicuously, fasting with dramatic displays. He warned that these outward shows might win the approval of people, but they miss the deeper purpose. The different translations all highlight the danger of doing good “to be seen,” reinforcing that the motive matters most.
Application to Life: Checking Motives, Practicing Humility, and Practical Steps
So, what does all this mean for us? It’s easy to slip into virtue signaling without realizing it—posting about our good deeds on social media, telling others about our charitable acts, or making sure our generosity is noticed. But Jesus asks us to pause and check our motives. Are we doing good to impress others, or because it’s the right thing to do?
· Before you act, ask yourself: “Would I still do this if nobody knew?”
· Practice anonymous kindness—help someone without expecting recognition.
· Reflect on your actions regularly and pray for a humble heart.
· Celebrate others’ quiet good deeds rather than your own.
· Remember that God sees everything, and His approval is what matters most.
Conclusion: Quiet, Humble Service as the Biblical Ideal
The Bible’s message is clear: true virtue is found in quiet, humble service—not in public demonstrations of self-righteousness. Jesus warns us against virtue signaling, calling us instead to sincerity, humility, and genuine love. By focusing on pleasing God rather than impressing people, we can live out our faith in ways that make a real difference—both in our own hearts and in the world around us.
Lord Jesus, teach us to walk in true virtue—quietly and humbly, with hearts set on serving others rather than seeking approval. Guard us from self-righteous displays and help us choose sincerity and genuine love in all we do. May our faith be pleasing to You, bringing light and hope to the world, and transforming us from the inside out. Amen.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 