Matthew 6:20
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Matthew 6:20 · King James Version
Meaning
When Jesus spoke about laying up treasures in heaven, He was emphasizing the transient nature of earthly possessions and the importance of focusing on spiritual wealth. Earthly treasures can be destroyed by moths, rust, or stolen by thieves, but treasures stored in heaven are eternal and incorruptible. By prioritizing spiritual growth and acts of kindness towards others, believers can accumulate treasures in heaven that will endure for eternity. This verse serves as a reminder to invest in eternal rewards rather than temporary pleasures, and to live a life guided by faith and righteousness. It encourages believers to seek fulfillment and purpose in serving God and others, rather than in material possessions that will ultimately fade away. By storing up treasures in heaven, believers are assured of a lasting inheritance that will never lose its value or be taken away.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of this verse emphasizes the importance of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material possessions. By laying up treasures in heaven, believers are encouraged to invest in deeds and acts of kindness that have eternal significance rather than focusing solely on earthly possessions that are susceptible to decay and theft. This verse challenges individuals to consider the temporary nature of worldly wealth and to instead store up eternal treasures through their actions and choices. It serves as a reminder to Christians to live with a perspective that values spiritual growth and heavenly rewards over temporary material gains.
Matthew 6:20 in other translations
American Standard Version
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth consume, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
World English Bible
but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consume, and where thieves don’t break through and steal;
Douay-Rheims
But lay up to yourselves treasures in heaven: where neither the rust nor moth doth consume, and where thieves do not break through, nor steal.
Geneva Bible (1599)
But lay vp treasures for your selues in heauen, where neither the mothe nor canker corrupteth, and where theeues neither digge through, nor steale.