PREPARING FOR THE SERMON

September 22, 2024

Matthew 6:19-24

Context:

            Jesus transitions from speaking about privately held righteousness in verses 1-18 to dealing with wealth and desire in verses 19-24. In the next section (verses 25-34), He will go on to discuss a related matter on the opposite end of the spectrum (simply surviving) which leads to the temptation to worry. Although the two sections concerning desire and worry both utilize the theme of possessions, the heart matters related to possessions are what Jesus teaches as being important. In this pericope, He begins with what is worth pursuing as seen through a desire for treasures.

           

Structure:

19-21 – “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (v 21)

 

22-23 – “if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light” (v 22)

 

24 – “No one can serve two masters” (v 24)

 

Key Ideas:   treasure, priorities, lordship, eternity

 

Some things to think about:

  • How balanced is your treasure portfolio? Do you live entirely for eternity at the expense of now? Do you live entirely for now at the expense of eternity? Where do you fall in between?
  • How biblical do you think your approach is?
  • What would someone who has never met you but observes your life for a week say you love?