Leader Guide
Jesus had so much to teach us through His famous Sermon on the Mount. The people who gathered to hear Him were longing for a better way to live—one with fewer rules, more hope, and deeper meaning. But Jesus wasn’t just focused on outward behavior; He was calling attention to the heart. This week as we continue our journey through this powerful sermon, Jesus challenges us to examine what kingdom we are truly living for. Where is our treasure? What do our motives reveal?
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
Leader: This section is designed to get discussions started, examine God’s truth, and apply it to our week. Life Group leaders should not assume everyone in their group is a Christ follower. Because they are taking part in a Life Group, they must have some openness to know more and explore. Pray for the Holy Spirit to work and let Him lead you as well.
1. When you were younger and received money (birthday, allowance, etc), did you spend it right away or save it? How about now—are you a spender or a saver when unexpected money comes your way?
2. Read Matthew 6:1-2, 19-21. Is it easy or hard for you to recognize when your motives are off? What are some ways we can be intentional about checking our motives and identifying where our “treasure” really is?
Leader: Jesus isn’t condemning saving or planning. He’s addressing our priorities. What we accumulate or pursue most often reveals our hearts. It’s not just what we do but why we do it that matters.
3. Read Matthew 6:22-24, 1 Timothy 6:10. What are ways that we can lose focus on Jesus and get pulled toward worldly things? Are there things in your life that you’re saying “yes” to that maybe need to become a “no” so that Jesus remains your true Master?
Leader: Money in itself isn’t the problem. It’s our relationship to it. When we elevate money, possessions, or status above God, we drift from the real kingdom that lasts. So many things compete for our hearts in this consumer world. What we treasure shapes who we serve.
4. Read Philippians 4:6-7, Matthew 6:33-34. How is being anxious different from feeling anxious? What does it look like to pray with thanksgiving in a stressful situation? According to Jesus, which kingdom should we pursue first—and what does He promise will result?
Leader: Jesus reminds us that the kingdom we seek first reveals the one we trust most. One leads to peace, the other leads to anxiety. Even believers can build on the right foundation with the wrong materials (see 1 Corinthians 3:11-15). Let’s build for eternity.
5. Action Steps: This week, spend time with God in honest reflection. Ask Him to search your heart (Psalm 139:23-24). Are you building “sandcastles” that wash away or investing in treasures that last forever? What are your motives? Where are you living for the temporary instead of the eternal?