What Do You Treasure? (Pt. 2) | Francis Chan

Sermon Summary

Main Message

When we ask ourselves what we truly treasure, the answer should point to the heart of God’s kingdom, not the fleeting riches of this world. This teaching invites us to examine whether our priorities are shaped by a desire to possess everything or by a longing to give everything for the sake of Christ. By aligning our hearts with the example of Jesus—who emptied Himself and placed His treasure in heaven—we can experience a deeper, more joyful commitment to the kingdom.

Key Scripture References

• Matthew 13:44 – “The kingdom of heaven is like a hidden treasure in a field; when a man found it he hid it again, and in his joy he went and sold everything he owned to buy that field.” The parable contrasts a heart that values the kingdom above all else with one that clings to earthly possessions.
• Matthew 6:19‑21 – “Lay no treasures on earth… but lay treasures in heaven… where your treasure is, there your heart will be.” This passage reminds us that where we invest our devotion determines the direction of our hearts.
• Mark 10:17‑22 – The rich young ruler’s refusal to give up his wealth and the disciples’ astonishment highlight the tension between wealth and kingdom devotion.
• Luke 12:15‑21 – The parable of the rich man warns against hoarding earthly wealth and encourages a life of generosity toward those in need.
• Romans 12:1‑2 – “Present your bodies as living sacrifices… and be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This calls for a radical reorientation of priorities toward God’s purposes.
• Philippians 2:5‑8 – “Have the same mindset as Christ, who emptied Himself.” The humility and self‑lessness of Christ become the model for our own treasure‑keeping.
• Colossians 3:2‑4 – “Set your minds on things above… for you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” This encourages a heavenly focus that shapes our daily actions.

Key Takeaways

• Our treasure determines our heart’s direction. When we place our greatest value in the kingdom—illustrated by the field in Matthew 13—we are willing to surrender everything else. This willingness is not a legalistic rule but a heartfelt desire to follow Christ’s example.
• Earthly wealth is a double‑edged sword. While it can be used for good, it also risks becoming an idol that distracts us from God’s higher purposes. The rich young ruler’s story shows how attachment to possessions can derail a genuine pursuit of the kingdom.
• Christ’s self‑emptying serves as the ultimate model. Philippians 2 reminds us that true greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by humility and service, not by accumulation. By emulating Jesus, we discover that giving can be more fulfilling than keeping.
• A heavenly focus transforms everyday life. Colossians 3 urges us to think above, which changes how we work, love, and serve. When our minds are set on the eternal, our actions naturally align with God’s will, and our hearts find peace.

This Week's Challenge

1. Identify one tangible way to share your resources—whether time, money, or talent—within the next seven days. Plan a specific act, such as volunteering at a local shelter or donating a portion of your paycheck to a mission. 2. Reflect daily on what you are tempted to hold onto and write a brief note on how you can redirect that attachment toward a kingdom purpose. Carry the note with you as a reminder of where your treasure should lie.

Reflection Questions

• What does your heart truly treasure, and how does that shape your daily choices?
• In what ways can you shift a portion of your earthly resources to support a kingdom initiative or a person in need?
• How does focusing on a heavenly treasure change your perspective on work, relationships, and personal desires?