Matthew 6:7

Matthew 6:7. But when ye pray. The plural form is resumed, and continued throughout the Lord's prayer; this probably extends the application to public prayer.

Use not vain repetitions. The correct sense of the Greek word (lit, ‘to speak stammeringly') is given in our English version, although all senseless and irrelevant expressions are included.

The heathen, i.e., the individual Gentiles. Comp. the repetitions of the priests of Baal (1 Kings 18:26), of the mob at Ephesus (Acts 19:34). The same usage prevails largely among the adherents of all false religions. There may be ‘vain repetitions' of the Lord's Prayer, which immediately follows. Hence Luther calls it ‘the greatest martyr.' ‘What is forbidden here is not much praying, not praying in the same words (the Lord did both); but the making number and length a point of observance '(Alford).

For they think they shall be heard for their much speaking. A second error; the first seeking to gain merit before men; this, attempting to gain merit before God. Prayer, not a magical charm, but a reasonable service.' Much speaking' not much praying;' vain repetition' of heathen origin; merely external worship leads to senseless and sinful worship.