Matthew 6:21

Matthew 6:21 is a profound and concise statement from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, encapsulating a foundational principle about human motivation and priorities. It reads, "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."

Context

This verse is part of Jesus' broader teaching on wealth and possessions, immediately following His admonition to "Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal" (Matthew 6:19-20). Instead, He urges His followers to store up "treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal." Matthew 6:21 serves as the logical conclusion and explanation for this instruction: our deepest affections and focus will naturally gravitate towards whatever we deem most valuable.

This teaching is central to understanding the values of the Kingdom of God, contrasting sharply with the materialism prevalent in society, both then and now. It sets the stage for further teachings on the simplicity of life and the impossibility of serving two masters (God and mammon), as found in Matthew 6:24.

Key Themes

• Priorities and Values: The verse directly links what we consider valuable ("treasure") to our deepest affections and motivations ("heart"). It challenges us to examine what truly holds our allegiance.
• The Heart's Affection: The "heart" (Greek: kardia) in biblical terms refers not just to emotions, but to the core of one's being—the center of intellect, will, and purpose. Thus, where our treasure is, there our entire being will be directed.
• Heavenly vs. Earthly Treasure: Jesus presents a clear dichotomy between transient earthly possessions and eternal heavenly rewards. Investing in earthly things leads to a heart fixated on the temporary, while investing in God's kingdom leads to a heart aligned with eternal values.
• True Security and Fulfillment: The teaching implies that true security and lasting fulfillment are found not in accumulating perishable wealth, but in aligning one's heart with God's eternal purposes.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "treasure" is thesauros, which can refer to a place where valuables are stored (a treasury or storehouse) or to the valuables themselves (a hoard of treasure). The implication is that whatever we accumulate or prioritize, whether tangible or intangible, becomes our treasure.

The word for "heart," kardia, as mentioned, signifies the innermost part of a person, the seat of thoughts, desires, understanding, and moral character. It's the very essence of who we are. Jesus is emphasizing that our ultimate focus and devotion will always be directed towards that which we consider our greatest treasure.

Practical Application

Matthew 6:21 calls for deep self-reflection for a general audience:

• Examine Your Investments: Where do you spend most of your time, energy, money, and thoughts? These reveal your true "treasure." Is it career, material possessions, social status, or the things of God's kingdom?
• Realign Your Priorities: If your heart is not where it should be (focused on God and eternal matters), this verse serves as a powerful reminder to intentionally shift your investments towards spiritual growth, serving others, and advancing the Gospel. As Colossians 3:1-2 encourages, we should "set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
• Find True Freedom: Understanding this principle can free us from the anxiety and endless pursuit of more earthly possessions, leading to a life of greater contentment and purpose, knowing our heart is aligned with eternal realities.