"And when you come before God, don’t turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?
"Here’s what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won’t be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace." (Matthew 6:5-6, MSG)
So, those sweaty, scream-y, hysterical church services? Praying at the top of your lungs? Making a big show of asking the blessing on the meal to impress your unchurched -- or too churched -- guests? Babbling in a 'language' no one can understand? Jesus says the attention you get by pulling those stunts is all the reward you'll ever get. He's on to you, and He's not a fan.
Sure, that's a very modern translation up there -- a paraphrase, in fact.
Funny enough, it sounded just about as contemptuous of your self-absorbed sideshow antics in 1611, the date of the first King James edition.
Folks, when an English king signs off on a passage about the dangers of putting on airs, you know you're in trouble.
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