worship where the Jews congregated. The word “hypocrite” was used of an actor on the Greek stage, one who played the part of another. These who made a display of giving alms were hypocrites in the sense that they played the part of a generous person who out of a heart of love would give to the poor. But their motive in giving was to have men glorify them, not from a desire to help the needy. They were actors on the stage of this life. They received the applause of the audience. Jesus said, “They