Investing in Eternal Treasures Over Earthly Wealth
Summary
### Summary
In today's sermon, we delved into Matthew 6:19-24, focusing on the theme of where our true treasure lies. Jesus instructs us not to store up treasures on earth, where they are vulnerable to decay and theft, but to store up treasures in heaven, which are eternal and secure. The core question posed is, "Where is your heart?" This question challenges us to examine our priorities and the focus of our lives. Are we consumed with accumulating material possessions, or are we investing in eternal values?
We live in a society obsessed with things—houses, cars, clothes, and money. This obsession is not unique to our time; even the Pharisees in Jesus' day were consumed with material wealth, equating it with divine favor. Jesus contrasts the Pharisees' superficial religiosity with the deeper, heart-centered righteousness required to enter God's kingdom. He emphasizes that true righteousness exceeds mere external compliance and involves a genuine transformation of the heart.
Jesus presents three choices: two treasuries (earthly vs. heavenly), two visions (light vs. darkness), and two masters (God vs. money). Each choice reflects a fundamental principle about how we should handle our wealth and possessions. The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, leading to destructive behaviors and attitudes. Instead, we are called to use our resources for God's glory and the benefit of others, not for selfish accumulation.
The sermon also highlights the importance of having the right attitude toward wealth. It's not about the mere possession of things but about how we use them. Wealth should be a tool for advancing God's kingdom, not an end in itself. The ultimate test of our faith and commitment is whether we are willing to invest in eternal treasures rather than temporary, earthly ones.
### Key Takeaways
1. Where is Your Heart?
- The question "Where is your heart?" challenges us to examine our priorities and the focus of our lives. Are we consumed with accumulating material possessions, or are we investing in eternal values? Our heart's true location is revealed by what we treasure most. [01:23]
2. The Danger of Materialism
- We live in a society obsessed with things, and this obsession can lead us away from God. Materialism is not just a modern issue; even the Pharisees were consumed with wealth, equating it with divine favor. Jesus calls us to a higher standard, one that values eternal treasures over temporary gains. [02:58]
3. Three Fundamental Choices
- Jesus presents three choices: two treasuries (earthly vs. heavenly), two visions (light vs. darkness), and two masters (God vs. money). Each choice reflects a fundamental principle about how we should handle our wealth and possessions. These choices are interconnected and reveal our true priorities. [22:07]
4. The Right Attitude Toward Wealth
- It's not about the mere possession of things but about how we use them. Wealth should be a tool for advancing God's kingdom, not an end in itself. The ultimate test of our faith and commitment is whether we are willing to invest in eternal treasures rather than temporary, earthly ones. [39:33]
5. Generosity as a Mark of True Faith
- True faith is marked by generosity and a willingness to give. John Wesley, despite his wealth, gave away a significant portion of his earnings, demonstrating that his heart was set on heavenly treasures. Our attitude towards giving reveals the authenticity of our faith. [40:25]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:23] - Where is Your Heart?
[02:58] - The Obsession with Things
[06:16] - Jesus' Contrast with the Pharisees
[09:21] - Right View of Wealth and Necessities
[10:44] - Handling Luxuries and Possessions
[11:21] - The Conviction of Wealth
[12:23] - Hypocrisy and Greed in Religion
[16:36] - Misinterpretation of Divine Blessings
[18:51] - The Pharisees' Greed
[20:21] - The Root of Inflation: Greed
[22:07] - Three Fundamental Choices
[23:56] - The Heart Attitude Toward Wealth
[26:28] - Two Treasuries: Earthly vs. Heavenly
[29:05] - What Does It Mean to Lay Up Treasures?
[31:28] - The Right to Possess
[34:43] - God's Generosity and Wise Investments
[39:33] - The Right Attitude Toward Wealth
[40:25] - John Wesley's Example of Generosity
[45:53] - The Key: For Yourselves
[48:00] - Examine Your Heart
[49:54] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- Matthew 6:19-24 (ESV)
> "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light, but if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
#### Observation Questions
1. According to Matthew 6:19-21, what are the two types of treasures Jesus contrasts, and what are their characteristics?
2. In Matthew 6:22-23, what does Jesus mean by describing the eye as the lamp of the body?
3. What does Jesus say about serving two masters in Matthew 6:24, and what are the implications of this statement?
4. How does the sermon describe the Pharisees' attitude towards wealth and possessions? [06:16]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does it mean to "lay up treasures in heaven" as opposed to "laying up treasures on earth"? How does this reflect one's priorities and values? [26:28]
2. How does the concept of the eye being the lamp of the body relate to our focus and vision in life? What might a "healthy" eye symbolize in this context? [22:07]
3. Why does Jesus emphasize that one cannot serve both God and money? What are the potential conflicts that arise from trying to serve both? [23:04]
4. How does the sermon illustrate the dangers of materialism using the example of the Pharisees and their greed? [12:23]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the question, "Where is your heart?" What are some specific ways you can evaluate where your true priorities lie? [01:23]
2. In what ways have you seen materialism affect your own life or the lives of those around you? How can you begin to shift your focus from earthly possessions to eternal values? [02:58]
3. Jesus presents three choices: two treasuries, two visions, and two masters. Which of these choices do you find most challenging, and why? How can you work on making the right choice in your daily life? [22:07]
4. Consider your current attitude towards wealth. Are there any possessions or financial goals that might be hindering your relationship with God? What steps can you take to align your attitude with Jesus' teachings? [39:33]
5. Generosity is highlighted as a mark of true faith. How can you practice generosity in your community? Identify one specific action you can take this week to give to others in need. [40:25]
6. Reflect on John Wesley's example of giving away a significant portion of his earnings. How does his story inspire you to use your resources for God's glory? What practical steps can you take to follow his example? [40:25]
7. How can you ensure that your financial decisions and lifestyle choices reflect a commitment to God's kingdom rather than personal gain? Share one specific change you plan to make in the coming month. [47:02]
Devotional
Day 1: Where is Your Heart?
Our heart's true location is revealed by what we treasure most. Jesus challenges us to examine our priorities and the focus of our lives. Are we consumed with accumulating material possessions, or are we investing in eternal values? This question is not just about our actions but about the condition of our hearts. What we value most will ultimately dictate our actions and decisions. Jesus calls us to a higher standard, one that values eternal treasures over temporary gains. Reflecting on where our heart truly lies can help us realign our lives with God's purposes.
Matthew 6:21 (ESV): "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
Reflection: What is one material possession you find yourself overly attached to? How can you begin to shift your focus from this earthly treasure to investing in eternal values today? [01:23]
Day 2: The Danger of Materialism
Materialism is a pervasive issue in our society, leading many away from God. This obsession with things—houses, cars, clothes, and money—is not unique to our time. Even the Pharisees in Jesus' day were consumed with wealth, equating it with divine favor. Jesus contrasts their superficial religiosity with the deeper, heart-centered righteousness required to enter God's kingdom. He calls us to a higher standard, one that values eternal treasures over temporary gains. By focusing on heavenly treasures, we can avoid the pitfalls of materialism and live a life that honors God.
1 Timothy 6:9-10 (ESV): "But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils."
Reflection: In what ways have you seen materialism affect your relationship with God? What steps can you take to prioritize eternal values over material possessions? [02:58]
Day 3: Three Fundamental Choices
Jesus presents three fundamental choices: two treasuries (earthly vs. heavenly), two visions (light vs. darkness), and two masters (God vs. money). Each choice reflects a fundamental principle about how we should handle our wealth and possessions. These choices are interconnected and reveal our true priorities. By choosing heavenly treasures, light, and God as our master, we align ourselves with God's kingdom and His purposes. These choices are not just about our actions but about the condition of our hearts and our ultimate allegiance.
Matthew 6:24 (ESV): "No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
Reflection: Which of the three choices (treasuries, visions, masters) do you find most challenging? How can you make a conscious decision today to align this area with God's will? [22:07]
Day 4: The Right Attitude Toward Wealth
It's not about the mere possession of things but about how we use them. Wealth should be a tool for advancing God's kingdom, not an end in itself. The ultimate test of our faith and commitment is whether we are willing to invest in eternal treasures rather than temporary, earthly ones. Jesus calls us to use our resources for God's glory and the benefit of others, not for selfish accumulation. By adopting the right attitude toward wealth, we can ensure that our possessions serve God's purposes and not our own.
Luke 12:33-34 (ESV): "Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Reflection: How can you use your current resources to advance God's kingdom? What practical steps can you take to ensure your wealth is serving God's purposes? [39:33]
Day 5: Generosity as a Mark of True Faith
True faith is marked by generosity and a willingness to give. John Wesley, despite his wealth, gave away a significant portion of his earnings, demonstrating that his heart was set on heavenly treasures. Our attitude towards giving reveals the authenticity of our faith. Generosity is not just about the act of giving but about the condition of our hearts. By being generous, we reflect God's love and grace to others, and we invest in eternal treasures that will never fade away.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: Think of a specific way you can be generous this week. How can this act of generosity reflect your faith and commitment to God's kingdom? [40:25]
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Where is the concentration of your heart? Where is the preoccupation of your life? What do you spend most of your time thinking about? Most of your time planning? Most of your energy is dispensed toward what particular object? Chances are, if you think about it very long and you're like most people, the answer is something. Something. A house, a car, a wardrobe, a bank account, a savings account, a bond, a stock, an investment, furniture, a thing." [01:23] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Well, Mr. Thing, I have some bad news for you. Oh, you say you can't hear me because the things are in the way? Well, I just want you to know that your things can't last. They're going to pass. There's going to be an end to them. Oh, maybe an error in judgment? Maybe a temporary loss of concentration? Or maybe you'll just pass them off to the secondhand thing dealer. Or maybe they'll wind up a mass of mangled metal being towed off to the thing yard." [04:34] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And someday when you die, they only put one thing in the box, you. As somebody said, there are no pockets in shrouds. you see, in spite of the stupidity of that, and it really makes it sound pretty stupid, we are basically committed to acquiring things. Sadly, the leading religionists of the day of Jesus had the same problem. They were totally consumed with things." [05:20] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "You must also have the right view of the Word of God. And the Pharisees have developed their own system. But you must know that the Word of God is what you must be committed to and not one jot or tittle shall pass from that lot till it's all fulfilled. And then you must have the right view of moral issues. Chapter 5, verses 21 to 48. The Pharisees are only concerned with the externals. They're only concerned that they don't kill or they don't commit adultery or they don't do something else. But I'm telling you, the moral issues are not just what you do or don't do. They're what you think or don't think." [08:28] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "You see, we must handle our possessions and our money and our wealth and our luxury like we do anything else, 1 Corinthians 10 31, whatever you do, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God. But we do so much of it to the indulgence of self. That's the problem." [22:07] (19 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "Now, the question that arises out of this text, it's a very simple one. Where is your heart? Verse 21. It's wherever your treasure is. Now, when I say, where is your heart, I don't expect you to start feeling around somewhere between your chin and your waist, because I'm not talking about physiology. And I'm not talking about the person sitting next to you that you're hopelessly in love with and have given your heart to. I'm talking about in terms of the investment of your life and your motives and your attitudes and your thought patterns." [01:23] (34 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Now, in chapter 6, verses 19 and following, He says, You must also have the right view toward wealth, luxury, verses 19 to 24. And watch this. Then from 25 to 34, you must have the right view of necessities. So, He's talking about things here. First, luxuries and then necessities. First, it's the wealth that we have and then it's just the necessity to eat and to sleep and to have a place to stay and some clothing to wear. And in both cases, the Pharisees had missed it. They had the wrong perspective of wealth and they had the wrong perspective of necessities." [09:21] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so it's against the backdrop of the greed of the Pharisees that our Lord speaks. And what He is saying here is that we must have the proper view of money and wealth and possessions. Now, listen, people. We're living in America in a great time of inflation, aren't we? And everybody keeps talking about recession and depression. And what's going to happen and the collapse. We hear this all on and on. Now, listen, I am not an economist and I am less than an economist, a politician. But I can tell you there's one simple reason for all inflation and it is greed. Period. Pure and simple. Greed. That's it." [20:21] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Now, some people go to church and they say, boy, you know, preachers are always talking about money. Well, I'm sorry if you're a first-time guest here and that's what you got this morning. That's not normal. We just talk about money when the Lord talks about money. As we go through the Scripture, when He gets on it, we get on it too. But I don't mind that. Oh, by the way, I thought I'd mention this too. In the book of Matthew, the Lord talks about money 109 times. So get ready, folks. In the book of Mark, He talks about it 57 times. And in the book of Luke, He talks about it 94 times. And in the book of John, He talks about it 88 times. And by the way, the Lord talks about money five times more than He talks about any other subject in the Bible." [25:38] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "If I am doing this to use it to the glory of God in the life of those around me and in His kingdom, then I have a right to all of it. But if I am gaining it to stockpile it and to hoard it and to keep it and to amass it, to indulge myself in it, that is sin. And you're right back to dealing with that attitude again. John Wesley was an extremely... An extremely wealthy man. Now we think of John Wesley as a great man of God and a great man of prayer and a man devoted to the time and the Word of God, up every morning for hours in the Greek text studying. And we think of him as a man of some low means. John Wesley was an extremely wealthy man." [40:25] (44 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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