Compare Job 27:19 with Matthew 6:19-21 on storing treasures in heaven. setting the scene Job speaks of the fate of the ungodly rich; Jesus addresses disciples about lasting wealth. Both passages stand in perfect harmony, revealing that earthly riches are fragile and eternal riches are secure. scriptures under the lens Job 27:19: “He lies down wealthy, but will do so no more; when he opens his eyes, it is all gone.” Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store 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.” observations from Job 27:19 • The wealthy man enjoys abundance, then suddenly loses everything at death. • “When he opens his eyes” points to awakening in the next life—no earthly asset follows him (cf. 1 Timothy 6:7). • The verse underscores the literal, swift disappearance of material wealth. observations from Matthew 6:19-21 • Jesus issues a clear command: stop accumulating fleeting earthly treasure. • He exposes three unavoidable threats: moths, rust, thieves. • A better option is given—actively lay up treasure in heaven, where none of these threats exist. • The location of treasure determines the orientation of the heart. threads that tie the passages together • Impermanence of earthly wealth: Job’s “it is all gone” and Jesus’ “moth and rust destroy.” • Certainty of loss: Job pictures loss at death; Jesus warns of decay even during life. • Call to value eternity: both passages direct attention beyond the grave toward what endures (cf. Proverbs 11:4; James 5:1-3). storing treasures in heaven: what it looks like • Generous stewardship now—giving to the poor, supporting gospel work (1 Timothy 6:17-19; Luke 12:33). • Investing time and talent in kingdom service (Colossians 3:23-24). • Cultivating Christ-like character that carries eternal reward (Galatians 6:7-9). • Fixing eyes on what is unseen and eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). earthly riches in proper perspective • Wealth itself is not condemned; trusting in it is (Proverbs 23:4-5; 1 Timothy 6:10). • God graciously provides resources for enjoyment and for good works. • Every possession is a temporary stewardship that will testify for or against its holder (Luke 12:15-21). bringing both passages together Job 27:19 shows the abrupt emptiness that greets the rich man at death. Matthew 6:19-21 supplies the remedy: transfer assets to heaven in advance. Only treasure deposited there remains untouchable, eternally rewarding its steward (Revelation 3:17-18). |
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