Verse
Context
Treasures in Heaven
19Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven--The language in Luke (Luk 12:33) is very bold--"Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not," &c. where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal--Treasures these, imperishable and unassailable! (Compare Col 3:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven,.... That is, either be concerned for, and seek after heavenly treasure, the riches of glory, the joys and glories of another world, which infinitely excel everything that is valuable on earth; and which can never be corrupted, or taken away: or rather, lay up your earthly treasures in heaven; that is, put them into the hands of God in heaven; and this is done, by liberally communicating to the poor; by which means men "provide themselves bags which wax not old, and a treasure in heaven that faileth not", Luk 12:33. They shall never want any good thing here, and they "lay up in store for themselves, a good foundation against the time to come", Ti1 6:18. This is the way to have worldly treasure secured from moth, rust, and thieves; for to lay it up in heaven with God, to give it to him, to his poor, to make use of it for his glory, is to lay it up in a place, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. Treasures are safer here than in our own hands, and will turn to better account, and more to our own advantage, both in this life, and that which is to come: see Mat 19:21. In this way, though not for it, men come to have treasure in heaven, even the treasure of eternal life, glory, and happiness. Heaven is often represented by the Jewish writers as a treasury; and the treasures which are in it are said (n) to be "Myyx yzng, "treasures of life", and treasures of peace, and treasures of blessing; and the souls of the righteous, and the spirits and souls that shall be created, and the dew with which God will quicken the dead.'' Those words in Deu 31:16. "And the Lord said unto Moses, thou shalt sleep with thy fathers", are thus (o) paraphrased. "And the Lord said unto Moses, lo! thou shalt sleep in the dust with thy fathers, and thy soul shall be treasured up , "in the treasury of eternal life", with thy fathers.'' They tell us (p) of a story of Monbaz the king, who was son to queen Helena; in which are many things agreeable to these words of Christ, and which may serve to illustrate them. "Monbaz the king stood and gave all his goods to the poor: his relations sent to him, and said, thy fathers added to that which was their's, and to that which was their fathers; but thou hast given away that which was thine, and that which was thy father's: he replied to them all thus: my fathers , "laid up treasure on earth, but I have laid up treasure in heaven", according to Psa 85:11. My fathers laid up treasures, which do not bring forth fruit; but I have laid up treasures, which bring forth fruit, according to Isa 3:10. My fathers gathered in a place, where the hand, i.e. of man rules, (where thieves break through and steal,) but I have gathered in a place where the hand of man does not rule, according to Psa 97:2. My fathers gathered mammon, money, but I have gathered souls, according to Pro 11:30. My fathers gathered for others, but I have gathered for myself, according to Deu 24:13. My fathers gathered in this world, but I have gathered "for the world to come".'' One of their commentators (q) on the phrase, "my fathers laid up treasures below", as it is in the Babylonish Talmud (r), has this remark: "for lo! all that they treasured up was for the necessaries of this world; which is , "a place of dust and vermin", which corrupt and destroy everything; "but I have laid up treasures above", a place secure and firm, and which preserves everything that is put into it.'' (n) T. Bab. Chagiga, fol. 12. 2. (o) Targum Jon. ben Uzziel, in Deut. xxxi. 16. (p) T. Hieros. Peah, fol. 15. 2. (q) Caphtor, fol. 97. 1. (r) T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 11. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:20 treasures in heaven: This was a common image for Jews of Jesus’ day; doing God’s commands became virtually equivalent to accumulating treasures with God. The context (6:19; Luke 12:33) suggests that Jesus primarily had acts of charity in mind.
Treasures in Heaven
19Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Father's Love
By Basilea Schlink1.5K04:35Radio ShowPSA 30:5MAT 6:20LUK 15:20ROM 8:182CO 4:17JAS 5:11REV 21:4In this sermon, Basilia Schlink discusses the fatherly love of God and how He reveals Himself to us. She references James 5:11, which speaks of God's compassion and mercy. The sermon focuses on the story of Job, highlighting how God pitied Job and suffered with him during his trials. It emphasizes that those who bear the sufferings of others seek to prepare a good ending, and that God bestows even greater blessings upon His chosen ones after their suffering. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners of the promise of heaven, where God will wipe away every tear and reward His children with eternal joy and glory.
A Father’s Love
By Basilea Schlink1.5K04:35Radio ShowMAT 6:20LUK 15:20JHN 14:2ROM 8:182CO 4:17JAS 5:11REV 21:4In this sermon by Basilia Schlink, the focus is on God's fatherly love and how He reveals Himself to us. The sermon references James 5:11, which speaks of God's compassion and mercy. The story of Job is used as an example of how God pitied Job and suffered with him during his trials. The sermon emphasizes that God has a special plan to show His love, and that He will wipe away every tear and embrace us like the prodigal son. The ultimate goal is for believers to experience the eternal weight of glory and the heavenly creation that God has prepared for His children.
Plain Christians in a Vain World
By David Cooper1.2K1:30:43Plain ChristiansMAT 6:20LUK 14:331CO 3:121TI 2:10JAS 2:171PE 1:71JN 4:20In this sermon, the preacher discusses the vanity and emptiness of the world and its inability to provide lasting satisfaction. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on God and His Word rather than pursuing worldly possessions and pleasures. The preacher also highlights the significance of loving God and one another as a true test of being a Christian. He references the book of James to emphasize the importance of faith accompanied by works, and encourages the congregation to live a life of genuine faith and lasting works.
A Time for Everything Part 1
By Chuck Smith1.1K25:05TimeECC 3:1MAT 6:20PHP 1:6JAS 1:2In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith reflects on the observations of life made by Solomon in the book of Ecclesiastes. Solomon, having experienced all that life has to offer, realizes the emptiness of life under the sun. He acknowledges that there is a time and season for everything, as appointed by God. Pastor Chuck uses the analogy of a potter and clay to illustrate how God shapes and molds our lives according to His purpose. He contrasts various aspects of life, such as birth and death, planting and harvesting, weeping and laughing, to emphasize the cyclical nature of life and the importance of surrendering to God's timing and plan.
Pillars, Manna, Vindication, and Treasure in Heaven
By Mike Bickle261:13:03Heavenly RewardsOvercoming ChallengesISA 60:14MAT 6:20MAT 19:21LUK 12:37JHN 6:351CO 3:15GAL 2:9REV 2:17REV 3:12REV 22:2Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of being an overcomer in Christ, highlighting the promises found in Revelation 2 and 3, particularly the rewards of becoming pillars in God's temple, receiving hidden manna, and the treasure in heaven. He explains that these rewards are not just for all believers but specifically for those who overcome challenges and remain steadfast in their faith. Bickle encourages believers to pursue a deeper relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of love and commitment in their walk with Christ. He also discusses the vindication of believers before their persecutors and the reality of heavenly treasures, urging the congregation to invest in their spiritual future.
7 Types of Eternal Rewards
By Mike Bickle1959:39Heart ResponsesEternal RewardsMAT 6:20MAT 25:211CO 3:81CO 15:412CO 9:7JAS 1:121PE 1:7REV 2:10REV 3:5REV 3:12Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of eternal rewards in his sermon '7 Types of Eternal Rewards,' explaining that our choices and actions in this life directly impact the rewards we will receive in the age to come. He highlights that Jesus spoke extensively about these rewards, which include various forms of glory, authority, and praise from God, and that they are based on our heart responses rather than our abilities. Bickle encourages believers to consider their daily decisions and acts of righteousness, as these will be recognized and rewarded by God, ultimately leading to a deeper communion with Him. He reassures that every small act of service and humility matters and will be remembered, urging listeners to live with an eternal perspective.
Appear Before the Judgment Seat of Christ
By William MacDonald2Eternal RewardsJudgment Seat Of ChristMAT 6:202CO 5:10William MacDonald emphasizes the significance of the Judgment Seat of Christ, where believers will receive rewards based on their earthly actions, whether good or bad. He explains that while all believers are fit for heaven, there will be varying degrees of reward and capacity for joy in eternity, reflecting the faithfulness and devotion of their lives. MacDonald illustrates this with the example of two men who, despite being equally saved, prioritize different pursuits, leading to differing capacities for enjoying the glories of heaven. He urges believers to recognize that their daily choices and priorities shape their eternal rewards and experiences. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a life dedicated to God's kingdom, which will yield greater joy and fulfillment in the afterlife.
He Gives Kingdoms, Crowns, Thrones!
By Thomas Brooks0Eternal RewardsFaithfulness of GodMAT 6:20ROM 8:181CO 9:252CO 4:17PHP 3:141TH 5:24HEB 12:28JAS 1:121PE 5:4REV 22:12Thomas Brooks emphasizes that Christ rewards those who suffer and serve Him with eternal glory and blessings. He illustrates that the more one endures for Christ, the greater the reward will be, drawing parallels to earthly examples of reward and generosity. Brooks reassures believers that Christ's promises are faithful and that His rewards surpass any earthly recognition, being both abundant and everlasting. He contrasts the fleeting nature of human rewards with the eternal and incorruptible gifts from Christ, who gives generously beyond our expectations.
Faith Realizes Eternal Realities
By Thomas Brooks0FaithEternal LifeMAT 6:20JHN 14:2ROM 8:182CO 4:18PHP 3:20COL 3:22TI 4:8HEB 11:11PE 1:4REV 21:4Thomas Brooks emphasizes the power of faith in realizing eternal realities, urging believers to focus on the glory and blessedness that God has prepared for those who love Him. He explains that faith transforms the unseen into the seen, making absent joys, riches, and divine favor present to the soul. By faith, believers can perceive the invisible God and the eternal rewards awaiting them, which are far greater than anything earthly. Brooks illustrates that faith allows the soul to experience the richness of God's promises and the joy of salvation, drawing a vivid picture of the heavenly treasures that await. Ultimately, faith is the lens through which believers can grasp the profound and glorious realities of eternity.
Coming Down From God Out of Heaven (Revelation 21 & 22)
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 45:13MAT 6:202CO 4:172TH 1:101JN 1:5REV 21:2REV 21:10T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the significance of the New Jerusalem as the final revelation of the glory of Christ, symbolizing the union of Christ and His Church with a timeless task of ministering life to the universe. The unity and oneness depicted in the heavenly city serve as a reminder for the Church to strive for oneness with and in Christ, allowing His life to flow out to others. The sermon emphasizes the importance of conforming to God's divine standards, maintaining transparency and clearness in our lives, and embracing suffering love as the only way to enter into the preciousness of Christ and His eternal glory.
Epistle 283
By George Fox0FaithfulnessEncouragementMAT 6:20EPH 6:11EPH 6:131TH 1:42TI 1:6HEB 2:71PE 1:42PE 3:1George Fox emphasizes the importance of standing firm in faith and wearing the whole armor of God to withstand trials and tribulations. He encourages believers to maintain their public testimonies and support one another, especially during difficult times, reminding them to keep their focus on heavenly treasures rather than earthly concerns. Fox expresses his desire for all to remain steadfast and faithful to the truth, despite personal struggles and weaknesses. He urges Friends to visit and encourage each other, ensuring that no one falters in their faith. His heartfelt message is a call to unity and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Our Future Rewards
By A.W. Tozer0Eternal RewardsGenuine FaithMAT 6:20ROM 14:101CO 3:14GAL 6:9COL 3:232TI 4:8HEB 11:6JAS 1:121PE 5:4REV 22:12A.W. Tozer emphasizes that our motives in the Christian life should be genuine and rooted in love for God, rather than solely for the rewards He offers. He reassures believers that while we should serve God for who He is, we should also remember the glorious future promises He has made, which include eternal rewards for those who walk in faith, love, and obedience. Tozer expresses confidence that God's faithful servants today may shine as brightly as the heroes of faith mentioned in Hebrews, suggesting that the legacy of faith continues beyond the past.
Homesick for Heaven
By H.C.G. Moule0Living with PurposeEternal LifeMAT 6:20JHN 14:2ROM 14:81CO 15:542CO 5:8PHP 1:21COL 3:11TH 4:13HEB 12:1REV 21:4H.C.G. Moule emphasizes the balance between living fully in the present and longing for the eternal joy of being with Christ. He asserts that the believer finds purpose and zest in life through their relationship with Jesus, which makes the prospect of death not a loss but a gain, as it leads to a deeper communion with Him. Moule encourages believers to focus on their duties and service in this life, motivated by the hope of eternal fellowship with Christ. He highlights that the joy of duty and the anticipation of heaven coexist, enriching the believer's experience on earth. Ultimately, the sermon reflects on the blessedness of death for the faithful, who transition from this life to a state of being 'far, far better' with Christ.
This Life and the After Life
By J.R. Miller0Hope in ChristEternal LifeISA 40:31MAT 6:20JHN 11:26ROM 8:381CO 15:542CO 5:8PHP 1:211TH 4:14HEB 11:1REV 21:4J.R. Miller emphasizes the continuity of life beyond death, asserting that there is no real break in existence for believers in Christ. He explains that dying is merely a transition, akin to waking from sleep, and that our earthly experiences will carry on in the afterlife. Miller reassures that all good and beautiful things we cherish will not be lost but will flourish in eternity, much like buds blooming into flowers. He encourages Christians to maintain hope, as even lives that seem unfulfilled will find completion in the eternal realm. Ultimately, he reminds us that in Christ, nothing beautiful or good ever truly perishes.
The Pursuit of Selfishness
By Charles Finney0True HappinessSelflessnessMAT 6:201CO 13:5Charles Finney emphasizes that true Christian love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:5, does not seek its own interests but prioritizes the happiness and well-being of others. He argues that while it is not wrong to care for our own happiness, it should not be our supreme goal; rather, we should aim to glorify God and serve others. Finney illustrates that genuine happiness is found not in selfish pursuits but in selfless acts of love and benevolence. He warns against the dangers of selfishness, asserting that true Christianity is about aligning our desires with God's glory and the good of others. Ultimately, he encourages believers to pursue holiness and benevolence, which will lead to true joy and fulfillment.
Epistle 404
By George Fox0MAT 6:20George Fox emphasizes the importance of visiting and learning from the righteous, observing their spiritual growth and heavenly treasures stored in God's kingdom. He encourages walking in Christ's worship, truth, and the new living way, avoiding worldly influences and striving for unity in the spirit. Fox urges believers to be spiritually-minded, to stir up the gift of God in one another, and to diligently serve in God's vineyard to prevent it from being overrun by distractions and temptations.
1 Peter 1:4
By John Gill0Eternal HopeHeavenly InheritanceMAT 6:20ROM 8:172CO 5:1EPH 1:141PE 1:4John Gill expounds on 1 Peter 1:4, emphasizing the nature of the inheritance that believers receive through Christ. This inheritance is described as incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading, highlighting its eternal and pure qualities that stand in stark contrast to earthly possessions. Gill explains that this inheritance is a gift from God, reserved in heaven for the elect, and secured by Christ, ensuring its safety from corruption and decay. He encourages believers to recognize the value of this heavenly inheritance, which is free from sin and eternal in nature, as they are co-heirs with Christ.
He Has No Reason to Complain!
By Thomas Brooks0Contentment in ChristGraceMAT 6:202CO 8:9PHP 4:19Thomas Brooks emphasizes that a Christian's wealth in grace and relationship with Christ far outweighs any earthly struggles or material lack. He asserts that even the smallest token of God's favor is more valuable than all the riches of the world, and that true contentment comes from knowing God as our portion. Brooks encourages believers to recognize their spiritual abundance, which provides joy and hope, regardless of their physical circumstances. He concludes that those who are clothed in Christ's righteousness have no reason to complain, as their souls are nourished by heavenly blessings.
Laying Up Treasures
By Mary Wilder Tileston0MAT 6:201CO 3:101CO 6:19COL 3:23REV 21:2Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of laying up treasures in heaven, highlighting the connection between our treasures and our hearts as mentioned in Matthew 6:20-21. Charles Gore explains that any act, thought, or word that promotes the kingdom of God is stored up in the divine treasure-house, awaiting its eternal reward in the heavenly city. Brooke Foss Westcott encourages believers to transform the conditions in which they work into temples where they serve, recognizing that these elements are essential for building a life dedicated to God.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven--The language in Luke (Luk 12:33) is very bold--"Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not," &c. where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal--Treasures these, imperishable and unassailable! (Compare Col 3:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven,.... That is, either be concerned for, and seek after heavenly treasure, the riches of glory, the joys and glories of another world, which infinitely excel everything that is valuable on earth; and which can never be corrupted, or taken away: or rather, lay up your earthly treasures in heaven; that is, put them into the hands of God in heaven; and this is done, by liberally communicating to the poor; by which means men "provide themselves bags which wax not old, and a treasure in heaven that faileth not", Luk 12:33. They shall never want any good thing here, and they "lay up in store for themselves, a good foundation against the time to come", Ti1 6:18. This is the way to have worldly treasure secured from moth, rust, and thieves; for to lay it up in heaven with God, to give it to him, to his poor, to make use of it for his glory, is to lay it up in a place, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. Treasures are safer here than in our own hands, and will turn to better account, and more to our own advantage, both in this life, and that which is to come: see Mat 19:21. In this way, though not for it, men come to have treasure in heaven, even the treasure of eternal life, glory, and happiness. Heaven is often represented by the Jewish writers as a treasury; and the treasures which are in it are said (n) to be "Myyx yzng, "treasures of life", and treasures of peace, and treasures of blessing; and the souls of the righteous, and the spirits and souls that shall be created, and the dew with which God will quicken the dead.'' Those words in Deu 31:16. "And the Lord said unto Moses, thou shalt sleep with thy fathers", are thus (o) paraphrased. "And the Lord said unto Moses, lo! thou shalt sleep in the dust with thy fathers, and thy soul shall be treasured up , "in the treasury of eternal life", with thy fathers.'' They tell us (p) of a story of Monbaz the king, who was son to queen Helena; in which are many things agreeable to these words of Christ, and which may serve to illustrate them. "Monbaz the king stood and gave all his goods to the poor: his relations sent to him, and said, thy fathers added to that which was their's, and to that which was their fathers; but thou hast given away that which was thine, and that which was thy father's: he replied to them all thus: my fathers , "laid up treasure on earth, but I have laid up treasure in heaven", according to Psa 85:11. My fathers laid up treasures, which do not bring forth fruit; but I have laid up treasures, which bring forth fruit, according to Isa 3:10. My fathers gathered in a place, where the hand, i.e. of man rules, (where thieves break through and steal,) but I have gathered in a place where the hand of man does not rule, according to Psa 97:2. My fathers gathered mammon, money, but I have gathered souls, according to Pro 11:30. My fathers gathered for others, but I have gathered for myself, according to Deu 24:13. My fathers gathered in this world, but I have gathered "for the world to come".'' One of their commentators (q) on the phrase, "my fathers laid up treasures below", as it is in the Babylonish Talmud (r), has this remark: "for lo! all that they treasured up was for the necessaries of this world; which is , "a place of dust and vermin", which corrupt and destroy everything; "but I have laid up treasures above", a place secure and firm, and which preserves everything that is put into it.'' (n) T. Bab. Chagiga, fol. 12. 2. (o) Targum Jon. ben Uzziel, in Deut. xxxi. 16. (p) T. Hieros. Peah, fol. 15. 2. (q) Caphtor, fol. 97. 1. (r) T. Bab. Bava Bathra, fol. 11. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
6:20 treasures in heaven: This was a common image for Jews of Jesus’ day; doing God’s commands became virtually equivalent to accumulating treasures with God. The context (6:19; Luke 12:33) suggests that Jesus primarily had acts of charity in mind.