Correct Option: C. Let it be known only by you and God Explanation of the Correct Answer: In the teachings of Jesus, particularly in the Sermon on the Mount (found in Matthew 6:1-4), He emphasizes the importance of humility and sincerity in acts of charity, including almsgiving. The key message is that when you give to those in need, it should be done discreetly and not for the purpose of gaining recognition or praise from others.

1. Spiritual Intent: The primary focus of almsgiving should be the act of helping others and fulfilling a moral obligation, rather than seeking approval or admiration from people. By keeping the act private, it reflects a genuine intention to assist those in need, aligning with the values of humility and selflessness that Jesus taught.
2. Divine Recognition: Jesus states that God sees what is done in secret and will reward those who give without seeking public acknowledgment. This reinforces the idea that the true reward for charitable acts comes from God, not from human applause.
3. Personal Relationship with God: By keeping the act of giving between oneself and God, it fosters a deeper personal relationship with the divine. It encourages believers to focus on their spiritual growth and connection with God rather than on external validation.

Why the Other Options are Incorrect:

• A. Sound trumpets for people to know what you are doing: This option is incorrect because it directly contradicts Jesus' teaching about humility in giving. Sounding trumpets would draw attention to oneself and is a metaphor for seeking public recognition. Jesus warns against this behavior, indicating that those who seek glory from others have already received their reward, which is fleeting and superficial.
• B. Give it in church: While giving in church can be a good practice, the option does not capture the essence of Jesus' teaching about the spirit of giving. The focus should not be on the location of the giving but rather on the intention behind it. Giving in church can still be done for the wrong reasons, such as seeking recognition from fellow congregants.
• D. Tell your parents secretly: This option suggests that sharing the act of giving with family, even in secret, is appropriate. However, it still implies a level of seeking acknowledgment or validation from others, which goes against the principle of keeping the act between oneself and God. The emphasis should be on the personal and private nature of the act of giving.

Summary of Key Points:

• Almsgiving should be done discreetly to reflect genuine intent and humility.
• The focus is on helping others without seeking public recognition or praise.
• God rewards those who give in secret, emphasizing a personal relationship with Him.
• Public displays of giving can detract from the spiritual significance of the act.

This understanding of almsgiving encourages a more profound commitment to charity that aligns with Christian values, fostering a spirit of generosity that is rooted in love and compassion rather than in the desire for recognition.