Matthew 6:19
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 6:19
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Chapter Context
Matthew 6 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of love, holiness, truth. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-34: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 6:19
19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
Analysis
Jesus commands a radical reorientation of values: 'Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal' (Greek: μὴ θησαυρίζετε ὑμῖν θησαυροὺς ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς, 'do not treasure up treasures upon the earth'). The verb θησαυρίζω means to store up or accumulate. Jesus identifies three threats to earthly wealth: moths (destroying clothing/fabric), rust (βρῶσις, literally 'eating,' possibly oxidation or vermin), and thieves. All earthly treasures are temporary and vulnerable. The command isn't against possessions per se but against accumulation as life's organizing principle. Security sought in material wealth is illusory.
Historical Context
In the ancient world, wealth consisted largely of grain stores, clothing, precious metals, and land. Moths destroying expensive garments was serious loss. Homes with mud-brick walls were vulnerable to thieves digging through (the Greek 'break through' literally means 'dig through'). Without modern banking or insurance, wealth preservation was precarious. Jesus' teaching challenged both poverty-stricken peasants dreaming of wealth and wealthy landowners hoarding it. His audience included both extremes.
Reflection
- How does our consumer culture's emphasis on accumulation conflict with Jesus' command?
- What are modern equivalents of 'moths, rust, and thieves' that threaten earthly treasures?
- How can we use material resources without making them our treasure or source of security?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Psalms 39:6, 62:10, Proverbs 11:4, 16:16, Zephaniah 1:18, Luke 12:21