Matthew 6:21
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Original Language Analysis
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
θησαυρὸς
treasure
G2344
θησαυρὸς
treasure
Strong's:
G2344
Word #:
5 of 12
a deposit, i.e., wealth (literally or figuratively)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:18While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.Luke 12:34For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.Proverbs 4:23Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.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.Hebrews 3:12Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.Jeremiah 4:14O Jerusalem, wash thine heart from wickedness, that thou mayest be saved. How long shall thy vain thoughts lodge within thee?Matthew 12:34O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.Acts 8:21Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God.Jeremiah 22:17But thine eyes and thine heart are not but for thy covetousness, and for to shed innocent blood, and for oppression, and for violence, to do it.
Historical Context
Ancient Mediterranean culture operated on patron-client relationships where one's treasure (whether serving a patron or being one) determined social location and loyalties. Jesus subverts this by making God the ultimate patron worthy of exclusive loyalty. Early Christian communities practiced economic sharing that demonstrated their treasure was in kingdom values, not personal wealth accumulation (Acts 4:32-37). This verse challenges both ancient and modern economics of self-interest.
Questions for Reflection
- If someone examined your calendar, bank statement, and thought life, what would they conclude you treasure?
- How do our investment choices shape, not just reveal, our heart's affections?
- What practical steps can reorient your treasure toward eternal rather than temporal things?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Jesus reveals the heart diagnostic: 'For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also' (Greek: ὅπου γάρ ἐστιν ὁ θησαυρός σου, ἐκεῖ ἔσται καὶ ἡ καρδία σου). This isn't merely 'what you treasure reveals your heart' but causally stronger - your treasure determines your heart's location. The 'heart' (καρδία) represents the center of affection, loyalty, and worship. We follow our investments; our passions align with our portfolios. This is diagnostic tool - examine where you invest time, energy, and resources to discover what you truly worship. Financial discipleship is spiritual discipleship because money habits reveal and shape heart orientation.