Jumpstarter 6 of 10

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Question 6

Using Matt. 12:34–35, the chapter says there are two treasures—good and evil—and both produce corresponding “fruit,” especially in speech. What kinds of words, conversations, or recurring anxieties might reveal that your “treasure” is material security rather than the “good treasure” of virtue?

Another way to ask: What kinds of words, conversations, or constant worries might show that your real treasure is feeling financially safe? What would sound different if your treasure were virtue instead?

Direct Answer If our treasure is material security, the transcript suggests it will show up as speech flowing from an “evil treasure” marked by fixation on possessions—constant talk of acquiring, protecting, and fearing loss—because “the mouth speaks out of the abundance of the heart.” Good treasure, by contrast, would produce speech consistent with virtue.

Support from Transcript:

“The evil man, out of the evil treasure, brings forth evil, for the mouth speaks out of the abundance of the heart” (Matt. 12:34–35).
Those carrying riches in the soul are “always acquiring possessions” and “perpetually on the lookout for more”—a mindset likely to dominate conversation.
They are “bent down and fettered to the toils of the world,” implying ongoing worry and preoccupation.
The good treasure is linked to “the good man…brings forth good” (Matt. 12:35).
Salvation is tied to virtues—“faith, hope, love…meekness, humility, and truth”—which implies speech shaped by these rather than by anxiety over things.

Discussion Follow-ups What topics do you return to when you’re tired or unguarded—possessions, status, security, or virtues? How might you practice redirecting your speech so it reflects “good treasure”?

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