Matthew Chapter 6 · Verse 20
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Original Language Analysis
θησαυροὺς
treasures
G2344
θησαυροὺς
treasures
Strong's:
G2344
Word #:
4 of 19
a deposit, i.e., wealth (literally or figuratively)
οὐρανῷ
heaven
G3772
οὐρανῷ
heaven
Strong's:
G3772
Word #:
6 of 19
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
βρῶσις
rust
G1035
βρῶσις
rust
Strong's:
G1035
Word #:
11 of 19
(abstractly) eating (literally or figuratively); by extension (concretely) food (literally or figuratively)
ἀφανίζει
doth corrupt
G853
ἀφανίζει
doth corrupt
Strong's:
G853
Word #:
12 of 19
to render unapparent, i.e., (actively) consume (becloud), or (passively) disappear (be destroyed)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
13 of 19
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Luke 12:33Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.James 2:5Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?Matthew 19:21Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.1 Timothy 6:19Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.Hebrews 11:26Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.Luke 18:22Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.Revelation 2:9I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.1 Timothy 6:17Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;1 Peter 1:4To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,Isaiah 33:6And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of thy times, and strength of salvation: the fear of the LORD is his treasure.
Historical Context
Jewish thought recognized rewards for righteousness (Daniel 12:3, Malachi 3:16-17), but Jesus emphasizes present action determining eternal outcome. His teaching resembles Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai's later saying: 'If you have done much in the study of Torah, they give you much reward... and faithful is your employer who shall pay you the reward of your labor; and know that the grant of reward unto the righteous is in the age to come.' Early Christians practiced radical generosity (Acts 2:45, 4:32-37), living out this heavenly treasure ethic.
Questions for Reflection
- What practical actions constitute 'laying up treasures in heaven'?
- How does focusing on eternal rewards transform our attitude toward earthly possessions and losses?
- In what ways are you currently investing in eternal versus temporal realities?
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus contrasts earthly with heavenly treasure: 'But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal' (Greek: θησαυρίζετε δὲ ὑμῖν θησαυροὺς ἐν οὐρανῷ, 'treasure up treasures in heaven'). Heavenly treasures are invulnerable to decay or theft - eternal and secure. What constitutes heavenly treasure? Acts of mercy, generosity to the poor, sacrificial love, faithfulness to God - investments in eternal realities rather than temporal comforts. The same verb θησαυρίζω is used, but the location shifts everything. This is wise stewardship - investing in what endures.