Matthew·Chapter 6

How to Apply

Start by taking a moment to reflect on your daily choices. What drives your decisions? This week, try setting aside a small amount of time or money for something that aligns with your values—like helping someone in need or volunteering. Notice how that feels compared to the hustle of chasing after more for yourself. Also, challenge yourself to limit your exposure to messages that glorify wealth—like certain media or social media feeds. Instead, fill your mind with thoughts and activities that remind you of what truly matters.

Chapter Context

This verse is like the climax of a thrilling story unfolding in Matthew 6. Before this moment, Jesus is talking about the importance of focusing on what really matters—like being generous, not worrying about material things, and trusting that you’ll be taken care of. He’s building up to this point to show you that your priorities matter! The tension is real: do you focus on earthly things, or do you trust in a higher purpose? After this verse, He dives deeper into the idea of worry and how it clouds our vision, reminding us to seek first the bigger picture, which is a life centered on faith over fear.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• one - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• can - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• serve - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• two - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• masters - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• for - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• either - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• hate - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• one - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What are some ways you might be trying to serve both God and money in your life, and how can you start to shift your focus to what you truly value?

Related Verses

• Luke 16:13 - This verse reinforces the idea that you can't be equally devoted to two different masters; you have to make a choice.
• 1 Timothy 6:10 - This verse warns that the love of money can lead to all kinds of trouble, echoing the message of prioritizing values over wealth.
• Proverbs 11:28 - This verse reminds you that putting your trust in money can lead to downfall, while focusing on righteousness leads to safety.
• Matthew 19:21 - Here, Jesus challenges a wealthy man to sell his possessions and follow Him, illustrating the need to prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 6:24. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Authentic Righteousness, Secret Giving, Prayer Model, Forgiveness, Heavenly Treasures, Sincerity in Worship, Divine Reward

Key Verses

Matthew 6:1, Matthew 6:9-13, Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 6:19-20, Matthew 6:24

Historical Context

Matthew, one of the twelve apostles, wrote this Gospel primarily to a Jewish audience, highlighting Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Chapter 6, part of the larger Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), encapsulates Jesus' teachings on ethical living, emphasizing the importance of inner purity and sincere devotion to God. The chapter is set against the backdrop of first-century Jewish religious practices, where public displays of piety were common. Jesus challenges these norms, calling for a deeper, more genuine expression of faith that transcends mere external compliance.