Living with Kingdom Values: Understanding Treasures in Light of Matthew 6:19-21
Big Idea:
The things that we treasure reveal the true state of our hearts.
There's a profound message hidden in the midst of Jesus’s teachings, one that resonates deeply with those seeking to understand what it truly means to live by Kingdom principles. As we delve into Matthew 6:19-21, we uncover not just a lesson on treasures, but a profound revelation about where our hearts truly lie and how we choose to navigate the complexities of life.
Understanding Kingdom Values
Jesus begins by explaining the essence of living by Kingdom values. It's not merely about outward acts of righteousness or religious practices devoid of genuine intention. Instead, it's about embracing a holistic approach to life, one that encompasses both outward actions and inward disposition.
At its core, living by Kingdom values entails two fundamental aspects:
Loyalty to Kingdom Values: Jesus calls His followers to embody the principles laid out in the Beatitudes, to walk in humility, mercy, and righteousness. It's a call to align our lives with the very essence of what it means to be part of God's Kingdom.
Trust in God: Integral to this way of life is a deep-seated trust in God's provision and sovereignty. It's a relinquishing of our anxieties and worries, knowing that our Heavenly Father cares for us deeply.
In the subsequent verses, Jesus delineates three specific areas through which we can live out these Kingdom values. Today, we focus on the first: treasures.
What Jesus Isn't Saying
Before delving into the text, it's crucial to dispel some misconceptions about Jesus' message. Contrary to popular belief, Jesus isn't advocating for a renunciation of possessions or the abstention from everything in the physical realm. Instead, He's addressing the underlying disposition of the heart.
Jesus isn't condemning the act of saving or enjoying the blessings of this world. Rather, He's cautioning against the pitfalls of selfish accumulation and materialism. It's a call to prioritize eternal values over temporal pursuits, without forsaking the legitimate enjoyment of God's gifts.
Unpacking the Text
In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus presents a striking contrast followed by a profound explanation:
Contrast: Jesus juxtaposes laying up treasures on earth with laying up treasures in Heaven. The former is characterized by a fleeting nature—subject to decay and loss. The latter, however, endures for eternity, unaffected by the changing of earthly circumstances.
Explanation: Jesus explains the rationale behind this dichotomy: "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Our treasures serve as a measure of our affections, offering a glimpse into the true state of our hearts.
The Heart of the Matter
At the heart of Jesus' message lies a profound truth: our treasures reveal the orientation of our hearts. What we value most reflects our deepest priorities and allegiances. As the apostle Paul says in Philippians 3:7-9, true worth is found in knowing Christ and aligning our lives with His purposes.
The parable of the treasure hidden in the field further underscores this principle. The man in the story recognizes the incomparable value of the treasure and willingly sacrifices everything to obtain it. In a similar vein, our pursuit of Kingdom values demands a radical reorientation of our priorities, where Christ becomes our supreme treasure.
Living Out Kingdom Loyalty
What does it mean to live as loyal subjects of God's Kingdom? It manifests in various ways, each reflecting a distinct aspect of our devotion:
Attending: Not everyone needs to occupy a position of leadership to contribute to the Kingdom. Simply showing up, whether in church gatherings or community events, can bear powerful witness to our faith.
Investing: Some express their loyalty through fervent prayer, generous giving, or acts of service. We are called to invest whatever time, resources, and energy we have into advancing God's Kingdom agenda, regardless of recognition or accolades.
Mobilizing: Further, we are called to empower and uplift others, facilitating their growth and development as Kingdom ambassadors. We don’t work for recognition, preferring to see others flourish in their journey of faith.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 6:19-21 serves as a poignant reminder of where our true allegiance should lie. As followers of Christ, our lives should reflect a radical commitment to Kingdom values, transcending the allure of temporal treasures. Let us heed Jesus' admonition to store up treasures in Heaven, where moth and rust cannot destroy and where our hearts find their true home.
Small Group Discussion Questions:
Reflect on a time when you struggled with prioritizing eternal values over temporal pursuits. What helped you realign your focus?
How do you distinguish between legitimate enjoyment of God's blessings and succumbing to materialism in your life?
Share about a treasure in your life—whether tangible or intangible—that reflects your deepest priorities and values. How does it shape your decisions and actions?
In what ways can we cultivate a deeper sense of trust in God's provision and sovereignty amidst the uncertainties of life?
Discuss the concept of being an "attender," "investor," or "mobilizer" in the context of your faith journey. Which role resonates with you the most, and why?
How can we encourage one another to pursue Kingdom values in our daily lives, especially in a culture that often prioritizes material success and instant gratification?
Reflect on Philippians 3:7-9 and the parable of the treasure hidden in the field. What practical steps can we take to make Christ our supreme treasure and focal point of our lives?
If you want to learn more about living in light of God’s Kingdom, Shepherd Thoughts exists to help you live out your faith. If you or a friend needs support or resources to love God and love others more, please reach out to us today. We’d love to help.
