What is the meaning of Matthew 6:21? For - “For” ties verse 21 to Jesus’ command in Matthew 6:19–20: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth … But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” The word signals that what follows is the reason behind that command. - By beginning with “for,” Jesus makes the teaching intensely practical—He is about to reveal the heart-level consequence of wherever we place our wealth, time, and energy. - Cross references reinforce this cause-and-effect flow: Luke 12:33-34 links selling possessions with hearts fixed on heaven; 1 John 2:15-17 warns that loving the world displaces love for the Father. - In plain terms, Jesus is saying, “Let Me tell you why I just told you to invest in heaven: your heart will go wherever you put your treasure.” where your treasure is - “Treasure” includes anything we prize: • Money and possessions (Proverbs 23:4-5; James 5:1-3) • Time, talents, and opportunities (Ephesians 5:15-16) • Ambitions and achievements (Philippians 3:8) • Relationships and affections (Matthew 10:37-39) - Earthly treasure feels secure but is temporary; heavenly treasure is eternal. First Timothy 6:17-19 urges the rich to be “rich in good deeds” so they may “lay hold of that which is truly life.” - Jesus’ parables back this up: the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price (Matthew 13:44-46) show that once someone sees the surpassing value of the kingdom, he gladly re-allocates all earthly assets. - Our bank statements, calendars, and thought patterns function like spiritual X-rays, revealing the location of our treasure. there your heart will be also - The “heart” is the control center of desires, thoughts, and choices (Proverbs 4:23). It does not lead treasure; it follows it. - Practical outworking: • Invest in earthly status—your emotions rise and fall with reputation (Galatians 1:10). • Invest in volatile markets—peace vanishes when stocks plunge (Psalm 62:10). • Invest in kingdom causes—affections gravitate toward Christ and eternity (Colossians 3:1-2). - This is both a diagnostic and a directive: check where your heart currently is, then redirect treasure to reorient affections. Second Corinthians 4:18 frames it succinctly: “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen.” - Jesus is promising more than information; He is offering transformation. Move your treasure toward heaven and your heart will catch up. summary Jesus grounds His call to store up heavenly treasure in a simple spiritual law: treasure leads, heart follows. Whatever we consistently value—money, time, ambitions—will magnetically draw our inner life. By investing in what endures, we safeguard our affections, align them with God’s kingdom, and experience the freedom and focus that come from having our hearts anchored in heaven rather than earth. |
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