“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven… that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”
— Matthew 6:1, 4 (NKJV)
In modern Christian culture, especially with the advent of social media, the line between sharing testimony and virtue signaling has grown blurry. Is someone genuinely expressing gratitude and inviting others to glorify God—or are they publicly announcing good deeds to elevate their social status, reputation, or brand?
Let’s explore that line using the example you provided.
1. Defining Virtue Signaling
Virtue signaling is the act of expressing opinions or performing actions publicly to demonstrate moral superiority or social virtue—often without meaningful sacrifice or authenticity.
In Christian terms, Jesus warns against:
- Doing charitable works to be seen (v. 1)
- Seeking praise from men instead of from God
- Making external righteousness a public performance
When someone posts repeatedly about their service, donations, or spiritual acts in a way that puts the spotlight on themselves, not on God or the people served, we should pause.
2. Breaking Down the Message
Let’s examine the tone and content of the quoted post through three filters:
A. Is the Post About the Giver or the Receiver?
- “We couldn’t be more excited… I love the opportunity to teach my kids…”
- “These trips give way more to me…”
- “I will continue to praise God publicly…”
Though there is an expression of praise to God, the emphasis remains heavily on the speaker—on what they feel, what they do, and what they receive from the trip.
B. Is Gratitude Given to God or Social Media?
- “I am so grateful for the vitamin donations…”
- “If I haven’t responded personally…”
- “I will continue to thank Him… and acknowledge those who donate…”
Gratitude is a beautiful thing. But gratitude aimed toward an audience—especially when paired with visibility of one’s good deeds—can slip into self-congratulation. Matthew 6:2 warns: “When you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do… that they may have glory from men.”
C. Could This Inspire Others or Exalt Self?
This is where intention becomes vital.
- If the post is a genuine call to glorify God and inspire others to serve, it’s consistent with Matthew 5:16: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
- If the post is about appearing virtuous while gaining social praise, it contradicts Matthew 6:4.
The line is subtle but important.
3. The Danger of Doing “Good” for Applause
Jesus didn’t condemn giving, praying, or fasting. He condemned doing these things to be seen. The reward becomes hollow, earthly, and self-centered:
“They have their reward.” — Matthew 6:2
This warning is more relevant than ever in a culture obsessed with branding, following, and platform. It’s easy to become performers of piety rather than servants of God.
4. A Better Way: Private Faith, Public Fruit
Here’s the biblical model:
- Give quietly.
- Let the fruit of your service be seen, not the spotlight of your effort.
- Share stories of impact with humility, not self-reference.
- Lead by example, but beware when that example requires applause.
5. Paul’s Example
Paul spoke often of his missionary journeys, hardships, and spiritual experiences—but with humility and fear of self-exaltation:
“If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 11:30
Contrast that with much of today’s “Christian influencer” culture, which boasts of their strengths—platforms, photos, donations, and trips—often in the same breath as “praising God.”
Final Thoughts
The words shared in the post can walk dangerously close to virtue signaling. While there is mention of God, the overall tone may elevate the giver more than the Giver of all good things.
This does not mean the heart is malicious—but it is a sobering call to evaluate intention, especially in light of Matthew 6:
- Are you giving for God’s glory or for yours?
- Are you praising Christ or promoting yourself?
- Are you seeking treasure in heaven or likes and shares?
The one who truly walks with God knows:
“The left hand shouldn’t know what the right hand is doing.” (Matt. 6:3)
