Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: Why Spiritual Wealth Matters More Than Material Success

unlockthebiblenow
May 2
3 min read

Updated: May 16

Based on Bible study lesson Seek Ye First The Kingdom Of God: The Danger Of Prosperity Gospel

In a culture consumed by material gain, it's easy—even for believers—to equate wealth and success with God's favor. But the Scriptures tell a different story. In Matthew 6, Jesus makes it clear: “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” This isn't a metaphor. It’s a defining line between two masters—one temporal, one eternal.

I want to confront a misconception that's taken deep root in modern Christianity: the idea that earthly prosperity equals spiritual blessing. This distortion not only undermines the Gospel but also distracts believers from their true calling—to serve the Kingdom of God above all else.

What Is the Kingdom of God?

Contrary to popular belief, the Kingdom of God is not a future political system or a utopian society. It’s a spiritual realm that begins within us the moment we place our faith in Christ. As Jesus said in Luke 17:21, “The kingdom of God is within you.” This isn’t symbolic fluff; it's a spiritual reality that shapes how we live, think, and serve.

Paul echoed this in Colossians 1, describing believers as already translated into the kingdom of His dear Son. We’re not waiting to enter the Kingdom—we're citizens of it now, called to steward spiritual gifts, not chase worldly success.

The False Promise of Prosperity

It’s tempting to believe that wealth, influence, or fame confirms God’s approval. Prosperity preachers often misuse Old Testament promises, applying them out of context to today's material ambitions. But Jesus didn’t preach comfort; He preached surrender.

In Mark 8:34–37, Christ calls His followers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. He asks, “What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” That question isn’t rhetorical—it’s diagnostic.

True Riches Are Eternal

Luke 16 warns us that if we’re unfaithful with worldly riches (mammon), how can God entrust us with true riches? The parable of the nobleman in Luke 19 drives this point further. Jesus is not rewarding financial acumen; He’s honoring faithfulness in spiritual stewardship. The servant who multiplies his “pounds” (representing spiritual gifts and service) is given authority in God’s coming Kingdom—not stock options or mansions.

This Kingdom isn’t observed with fanfare. It grows silently, like mustard seeds, within the lives of those who live by faith, often at great personal cost. As Paul wrote, “We are fools for Christ’s sake... we are made as the filth of the world” (1 Corinthians 4). That’s not a life the world admires—but it’s one that Heaven honors.

Will We Be Found Faithful?

When Christ returns—Revelation 19 describes Him riding in power and glory—He wears many crowns. Could these be the very crowns He’ll give to those who sought first His Kingdom? Those who resisted the allure of comfort and acclaim to serve faithfully?

Paul looked toward this moment with confidence: “I have fought a good fight... henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4). That same reward awaits all who long for His appearing and live in obedience to His call.

A Call to Reassess

This isn’t about rejecting money or ambition. It’s about discerning whether these things serve God—or whether they’ve become our gods. It’s time for believers to examine where our treasures truly lie. Is our confidence in bank accounts, accolades, and social standing? Or is it in Christ, who supplies all our needs?

The Kingdom of God calls for more than belief. It calls for loyalty, sacrifice, and daily surrender. If you're outside of that Kingdom today, know this: Christ made a way in through His death and resurrection. Trust in Him, and you'll receive something this world can never offer—eternal life and an inheritance that doesn't fade.