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According to Christ, we shouldn't make public our fasting either by our appearance, demeanor or actions.

Like prayer, it should be private.

Nor should we applaud ourselves for giving up Juicy Fruit Gum and snowmobiling in April. It's all just more "works salvation."

And that error rightly belongs to Rome.

Yes, but not necessarily in the manner spoken of by Christ. I believe he is talking about someone who is falsely acting out out on the street or overly all the time to show others. Not casually talking about it or if asked. Note:

Matthew 6:5 "as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others."

Notice the word win. It's in the true motive of the person.

Also notice when at times Christ talks he over exaggerates to get to the main point like when he talks about cutting your hand or foot off if you sin. It can be a style of speaking. He did not at best literally mean actual natural act. He meant hate it as such.

The more I read the scriptures or hear audio bible these nuances I believe can be seen especially after heartfelt prayers. The verses of spoken words of Jesus can have a subtle distinction or variation from the first read of a text. Especially Jesus's red lined words in the Bible. Which I think is just wonderful to read at times truly exciting to ponder in the Holy Spirit. I always find it so beautifully surprising when there is a multilevel to it. That I did not see before. Imagine he the Lord knew this would be repeated and written for his witness for over two thousand years. Just mind bongling on the natural mind. How awesome he truly is at all the times.

Thank you for sharing.