Lesson Five

The Two Treasuries: Earth and Heaven

Reading Assignment: Chapter 7

Jesus always had two kingdoms in mind—two treasuries, two perspectives, and two masters. We can store up treasures either on earth or in heaven. What we value most—the temporal or the eternal—will determine what we do with God’s money.

1. On what basis does Jesus argue against storing up treasures on earth? On what basis does he argue for storing up treasures in heaven? (Hint: On the basis of right versus wrong or smart versus stupid?) Why is this significant?

2. Agree or disagree: Jesus says we shouldn’t store up treasures for ourselves. If you agree, explain why. If you disagree, revise the statement to make it accurate.

3. Why do we gain a vested interest in whatever we put our treasures into?

4. Matthew 6:21. According to Jesus, how can we develop more of a heart for the poor, the lost, suffering Christians, or others in the Church?

5. We will “invest” in whichever kingdom we choose. List various ways in which people invest in this world. Then list ways to invest in God’s kingdom.

6. Matthew 13:44. What does it mean for Christians today to “sell all we have” to seek ultimate heavenly treasure? If someone in the group has read The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn, ask him or her to summarize the message of that book.

7. Philippians 3:7-11. What does Paul say about the treasure of this world? In what ways is Christ himself our treasure as Christians? In what sense are others our treasure? Is it right to consider eternal rewards our treasures?

PRAYER: Lord, help us to learn how to relocate our treasures from earth to heaven.