KOZ FEB 25

Matthew 6:21 ESV

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Heart Matters: Where Your Treasure Is

Bible Passage: Matthew 6:21

Summary: In Matthew 6:21, Jesus teaches that our hearts will follow where we place our treasures, emphasizing the importance of aligning our values with God's kingdom rather than earthly possessions.

Application: This message challenges teens to introspectively consider what they value most in their lives and how these values reflect their relationship with God. By prioritizing spiritual over material treasures, they can find lasting fulfillment and purpose.

Teaching: This sermon teaches that true fulfillment comes not from material wealth or possessions but from investing in spiritual things that have eternal significance. It encourages young people to reflect on their priorities and to seek a deeper relationship with Christ.

How this passage could point to Christ: The focus on treasure in this passage connects to Christ as the ultimate treasure in all scriptures, highlighting His invitation to choose Him over temporary earthly gains. Jesus embodies the true worth and value that believers should pursue.

Big Idea: Where you invest your time, energy, and resources reveals what truly matters to you; choose wisely to reflect the love and values of Christ.

Recommended Study: Consider exploring the cultural context of wealth and poverty in first-century Judea using your Logos library, which can enhance your understanding of the significance of treasure in that society. Additionally, look into the theological implications of treasure in Biblical literature, focusing on both Old and New Testament teachings about wealth, stewardship, and priorities.

1. Prioritize Heavenly Treasures

Matthew 6:19-20

You could explore how Jesus contrasts storing treasures on earth with storing treasures in heaven, illustrating the temporary nature of earthly gains versus the eternal significance of heavenly values. Encourage teens to consider what they're investing their time and energy into and how it aligns with eternal values. Emphasize the choice to prioritize God's kingdom and righteousness over material possessions.

2. Treasure Reveals Heart

Matthew 6:21

Perhaps you could delve into the idea that where we place our treasure reveals where our heart is. Stress to the teens that their true priorities are often reflected in their spending habits and daily decisions. Invite them to evaluate whether their hearts are aligned with Christ as the ultimate treasure, encouraging a shift towards valuing spiritual growth and love over temporary pleasures.

3. Illuminate with Christ's Light

Matthew 6:22-23

Maybe highlight how the eye is described as the lamp of the body, and suggest to the teens that having a healthy 'eye' or perspective means focusing on the light—Jesus and His teachings. Acknowledge the influence of what they consume through media, friendships, and experiences, and challenge them to seek clarity and light by focusing on Jesus to guide their values and priorities.

4. Serve One Master

Matthew 6:24

Reflect on the impossibility of serving two masters, illustrating the struggle between devotion to God and material wealth. Encourage teens to firmly decide who they will serve, pointing out that a divided heart leads to inner conflict. Use this passage to invite them to fully commit to Christ as their master, aligning their values and actions with His calling.

What does Matthew 6:21 say about the relationship between our treasures and our hearts?

How does the sermon illustrate the idea that our spending habits reflect our true priorities?