Forever Treasures

Passage

Matthew 6:19-24

Sermon Summary

Jesus' teaching on money isn't designed to make us guilty, or to resolve the tension of stewarding stuff. Rather, he wants us to see reality more clearly, including four important truths:

1. Treasure is good, because stuff is good. The question is where we "lay it up."
2. Heaven is now, not just in eternity. We can begin to enjoy God's blessings in this life, especially relationships.
3. Money crumbles. We think it's secure, but it never is.
4. Money masters us. We think we control it, but it controls us more than we realize.

When the "eyes of our hearts" see these things clearly, then with Jesus' strength we can give generously and use what have to bless others.

Discussion Questions

1. [Optional starter question] What stood out or stuck with you from the sermon?
2. Does talking about money make you uncomfortable? Why or why not?
3. What is one way that you experience the treasures of heaven breaking into the present? 
4. What is something you already own that you can use to bless others? Take one simple step toward doing that.
5. Why do you personally tend to believe that money will always last? 
6. Name some of the hidden costs of owning some of the things you have.
7. Describe the way that you decide how much to give away, and to whom.

Resources Consulted:

• Africa Bible Commentary, ed. Tokunboh Adeyemo
• True to Our Native Land, ed. Bryan K. Blount
• The New Testament in Color, ed. Esau McCauley
• Matthew for Everyone, NT Wright
• The Message of Matthew, John Stott
• The Divine Conspiracy, Dallas Willard
• The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn
• Money, Possessions and Eternity, Randy Alcorn

‍