King James Version
What Does Matthew 6:21 Mean?
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
Context
19
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:
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:
21
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
22
The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.
23
But if thine eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that darkness!
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(21) **Where your treasure is.**—The words imply the truth, afterwards more definitely asserted, that it is impossible to “serve God and mammon” (Matthew 6:24). Men may try to persuade themselves that they will have a treasure on earth and a treasure in heaven also, but in the long-run, one or the other will assert its claim to be *the* treasure, and will claim the no longer divided allegiance of the heart.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Matthew 6:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Matthew 6:21
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge