Matthew 6:21

Commentary on Matthew 6:21

Matthew 6:21 (NKJV): “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Context within Matthew 6: Matthew 6 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus addresses various aspects of righteous living and devotion. This chapter includes teachings on giving, prayer, fasting, and priorities in life. Verses 19–24, in particular, focus on the issue of treasures and material possessions, contrasting earthly and heavenly values.

Teaching from Matthew 6:21

The Location of Treasure: Jesus’ statement highlights the direct connection between one’s treasure and one’s heart. “Treasure” signifies what we value most—whether it’s material possessions, achievements, or spiritual wealth. The heart represents the core of our affections, desires, and commitments. This teaching challenges believers to evaluate what they prioritise and cherish in their lives, urging them to invest in eternal, rather than temporal, treasures (Colossians 3:1–2).

Earthly vs. Heavenly Treasures: Verses preceding Matthew 6:21 speak about storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth. Earthly treasures are vulnerable to decay and theft, while heavenly treasures are eternal and secure, as are the transient nature of earthly wealth and the enduring value of spiritual investments. This teaching calls for a focus on godly pursuits, such as faith, love, and good works, which have eternal significance (1 Timothy 6:17–19).

The Heart’s Alignment: Jesus teaches that the heart follows where the treasure is placed. This implies that our affections and priorities will naturally align with what we invest in. This highlights the importance of cultivating a heart that seeks after God and His kingdom. It encourages believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God, allowing Him to shape their desires and guide their actions (Psalm 37:4).

Application to Modern Christian Living

Evaluating Priorities: Modern Christians are called to regularly evaluate their priorities and consider where they are investing their time, resources, and energy. This involves introspection and realignment of their lives to ensure that they are storing up treasures in heaven rather than being consumed by material pursuits (Matthew 6:33).

Pursuing Eternal Investments: Believers are encouraged to pursue investments that have eternal value. This means focusing on spiritual growth, fostering relationships, serving others, and advancing God’s kingdom. Practical steps include dedicating time to prayer, studying Scripture, participating in church community, and engaging in acts of charity and justice (James 2:14–17).

Heart Transformation: The teaching of Matthew 6:21 underscores the need for heart transformation. This involves seeking God’s help to transform desires and priorities, cultivating a heart that loves God above all else. It requires a commitment to spiritual disciplines that foster intimacy with God and align one’s life with His will (Romans 12:2).

In conclusion, Matthew 6:21 challenges believers to examine their priorities and align their hearts with God’s eternal values. This verse emphasises the importance of storing up treasures in heaven, pursuing godly investments, and allowing one’s heart to be transformed by a deep, abiding relationship with God. It calls Christians to live with an eternal perspective, reflecting the priorities of God’s kingdom in their daily lives.