The Gospel of Matthew: The Apostle Paul Riffing on Jesus's Teaching in Mathew 6

Scripture References: 1 Timothy 6:17-19 (Main) Matthew 6:19-21, 24

Intro: Following up on Jesus' teachings about treasure in Matthew 6, this sermon explores Paul's related instructions in 1 Timothy 6:17-19. Discussions about money are ultimately about our heart's deepest affections, allegiances, and treasures. The world shouts that wealth is the goal, but like yelling "Wrong Way!" at a confused soccer player, the Spirit calls us to recognize that is not our goal.

Key Points:

1. Recognize: You ARE the Rich (v. 17): By global and historical standards, many listening are the rich Paul addresses, even if we don't feel it. We must lean in to this command. God isn't condemning income, but the attitudes wealth can foster: arrogance, pride, entitlement. Beware the deceitfulness of riches.
2. Hope: God Richly Provides for Enjoyment (v. 17): Command the rich not to hope in uncertain wealth, but in God. He isn't a killjoy; He richly provides everything for our enjoyment. He desires true, abundant life for us. Trust Him, not money, as the ultimate Source of satisfaction and security.
3. Command: Be Rich... in Good Deeds (v. 18): The antidote to wealth's dangers isn't necessarily poverty, but radical generosity. "Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share." Actively look for opportunities to give; serve God with money.
4. Perspective: Life Beyond This Life (v. 19): Paul contrasts the "present age" with the "coming age." We need an eternal perspective. Like the Rich Fool, storing up earthly treasures is short-sighted. True wisdom invests in eternity.
5. Action: Lay Up True Treasure (v. 19): Generosity isn't just commanded; it's strategic. By being generous, we "lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age." This allows us to "take hold of the life that is truly life." Convert temporal assets into eternal wealth.

Conclusion: True life, the life God intends, isn't secured by earthly wealth but by placing hope in Him, countering wealth with generosity, and using resources to build an eternal foundation. This is how we grasp "the life that is truly life."

Call to Action: Acknowledge your relative wealth and examine your heart for pride or misplaced hope. Cultivate active generosity – be rich in good deeds. As baptism symbolizes total surrender, examine what areas (finances?) you might be holding back from God. Receive His true riches to loosen your grip on worldly substitutes.

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The Apostle Paul Riffing on Jesus's Teaching in Mathew 6 (1st Timothy 6:17-19)
with Travis Aicklen

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