In Matt 6:19-21, do you think Jesus was actually talking about an invitation to more generous giving, and a challenge to give away material goods as one way of storing up treasure in heaven? — A. H.
Yes, it does sound like generosity secures treasure in heaven. Yet we can’t buy it—it’s not a matter of mechanics. Rather, when our hearts are generous, we’ll appreciate heaven all the more. The notion that everyone will have the same experience of heaven is dubious. As I understand the matter, the more we are invested, the more we will appreciate it.
For further thought:
- Please check out the series on the Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7). Scroll down to Treasure.
- Q&A 0219 and Q&A 0482 may also help.
- Please take a peek at the second Matt 6 entry in the Living NT Commentary. Luke 12:33 is relevant; seeLuke 12a. For both these pieces, be sure you have logged in to the website first.
- This piece is on the so-called "doctrine of non-accumulation."
- Then there's the iFaith talk on your passage. Scroll down to Sermon on the Mount O.
Hope this helps. Sorry if this is too much!
