←
Explanation for:
Matthew
6
:
33
Seek ye therefore first the kingdom of God, and his justice, and all these things shall be added unto you.
12
more explanations
& daily audio-books
spoken by
– enjoy in Theosis App –
Start your
Bible-journey
with explanations
& daily audio-books
only 4$* per month
{"arr":[{"author-name":"Athanasius the Great","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c889457b66f7fc274d1066_Athanasius%20the%20Great.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The kingdom of God represents a foretaste of the blessings to come, encompassing the vision and understanding of God, as much as the human spirit can grasp."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Furthermore, to instill in us an unwavering confidence in God's Providence over all circumstances, our Redeemer provides us with additional assurance, stating, “Seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.\\" By alleviating us from unnecessary worries, Christ also spoke of the heavenly realm; He came to abolish the former order and to invite us to a superior homeland. Hence, He works diligently to detach us from indulgences and attachment to worldly matters. He referred to the Gentiles, who pursue such concerns solely for this life, lacking contemplation of the future or consideration of heaven. This pursuit should not define your focus; instead, your emphasis ought to be on higher aspirations. We were created not merely for sustenance or apparel but to glorify God and receive eternal rewards. Thus, it is unnecessary to overly concern ourselves with earthly provisions. Consequently, the Saviour proclaimed, “Seek ye the kingdom of heaven, and all these things shall be added unto you.” He did not promise they would be given outright, but indicated they would be added, revealing that the current blessings pale in comparison to the enormity of future ones. He does not instruct us to request present goods; rather, He urges us to aspire for greater treasures, trusting that the other blessings will follow. Seek after eternal treasures, and you will find your needs met; turn away from visible wealth, and surely, it will be granted to you. It is inappropriate to approach the Lord seeking such transient rewards. When you devote your energy and focus to the immeasurable blessings, you greatly diminish your dignity by becoming tormented over fleeting possessions.\\n\\nYou may wonder why Christ did not instruct us to request bread. He specified that we ask for \\"the daily bread\\" and affixed the term \\"today.\\" Indeed, nothing leads us nearer to spiritual downfall or diverts us from future riches than a strong desire for temporary pleasures. Conversely, nothing guides us toward the attainment of both present and eternal blessings like a focus on those future goods. “But seek,” Christ states, “first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Even if temporal goods were entirely out of reach, we should not concern ourselves with their pursuit. Seeking eternal goods also entails acquiring present ones. Yet, some remain unconvinced, resembling unfeeling stones as they chase after illusory delights. Indeed, what is gratifying in the fleeting pleasures of life? What can be truly joyous? I shall express this more candidly now, and I ask you to listen and comprehend that the existence you find difficult (referring to the life of monks and those who have renounced worldly pursuits) is far sweeter and more desirable than what you perceive as comfortable. You are witnesses to this yourselves: often, in times of hardship and sorrow, you long for death and deem blessed those who dwell in solitude, leading a life free from cares, while you engage in laborious pursuits or idle activities, spending your days in theaters and dances. In such settings, while a multitude of pleasures abound, deep sorrows continually arise. \\n\\nConsider the plight of one enthralled by the dancing maidens; the suffered anguish this person endures exceeds what you may encounter in numerous battles or relentless travels. The anguish of the besotted is more severe than that of any besieged city. Nevertheless, rather than elaborate on these tormenting experiences—yielding to the judgment of one's conscience ensnared by love—we can reflect on ordinary life, where we discern a profound contrast between monastic and secular existence, akin to the difference between a wharf and a tumultuous sea constantly disturbed by winds. The very sanctuaries of the monks foster their prosperity, as they retreat from the hustle of markets and the clamor of crowds, choosing a life among the mountains, untouched by worldly strife, free from sorrow, worry, peril, deception, animosity, envy, or lust. Their focus rests solely on the Kingdom of Heaven, engaging in silent communion with nature and, most importantly, with God. Their dwellings are isolated from distractions, and their souls, unburdened by passions or ailments, possess a purity akin to the finest air. Their pursuits echo those of Adam before his fall, when he, adorned with glory, conversed with God while inhabiting the bliss of paradise. Indeed, is the life of monks any less than that of Adam in paradise before his transgression? Adam did not bear worldly anxieties, and neither do the monks. Adam conversed with God with unfettered clarity; likewise, the monks engage with God, possessing even greater boldness due to the abundant grace of the Holy Spirit bestowed upon them. You should have witnessed this miraculous existence; yet, as you seem disinterested and occupy yourselves with the din of life and market affairs, I will endeavor to describe a fragment of their way of living—though it is impossible to convey the entirety of their life experience.\\n\\nThese luminaries of the world arise with vitality and vigor, even before dawn or at sunrise, untroubled by grief or care, embodying the tranquility of angels. Swiftly, they rise, filled with joy, and together, unified in spirit, they lift their voices in hymns to the Almighty, expressing gratitude for both personal and communal blessings. Pray tell, dear friends, how does this collective countenance differ from that of angels exclaiming on earth, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men” (Luke 2:14)? Their garments reflect their courage, distinct from the ostentation and sloth that characterize the world. Clad in attire reminiscent of the blessed angels, such as goat or camel hair or aged leather, they kneel in reverence, calling upon their exalted God for assistance in matters others might scarcely think to seek. They ask for nothing material; their pleas focus on approaching the awesome throne with courage when the only begotten Son of God returns to judge the living and the dead, desiring to avoid the haunting words, “I do not know you” (Matthew 25:12) and to fulfill the trials of this transient existence with a pure conscience and abundant good deeds.\\n\\nTheir prayers commence with a father or leader, and once this continual devotion concludes, each one diligently attends to their appointed tasks, diligently working for the benefit of the impoverished. Where are those who indulge in debauched revels, sensuous songs, or theatrical spectacles? It is disheartening to consider them, but I am compelled, given your fragile condition, to address this. Paul reminds us, “As ye delivered your members into servants to uncleanness and iniquity for works of iniquity, so now present your members into servants of righteousness for works of holiness” (Romans 6:19). Let us observe the throngs of shameless women and indecent young men congregating in theaters, using diverse amusements to ensnare careless youth, and compare their lives with that of the blessed. The disparity is as stark as that between angels singing melodiously in heaven and the cacophony of dogs and pigs rummaging through refuse. In the former, Christ's voice resonates; in the latter, the devil's tongue prevails. There, the very trumpets sound in harmony with their unruly exclamations, while here, the music filled with the Holy Spirit emerges from the mouths of saints like triumphant trumpets of praise and flutes. Whatever I may express, it is nearly impossible to capture the delight of those captivated by frivolous entertainment. Therefore, I wish to bring someone ensnared by the allure of the theater to witness firsthand the company of holy individuals so that words might not be necessary. \\n\\nHowever, acknowledging the temporal nature of my audience, I will attempt to elevate them from the mire of worldly distractions, if just a little, through my words. In that audience, the mind ignites with the flames of impure love: the gaze of a harlot can inflame passions, leading to destruction; conversely, in the company of monks, any lingering impurities dissipate immediately. The destructive allure of the harlots obsesses the spectators with their garments, voices, and movements. A man of modest means, overwhelmed by the luxury of such displays, may lament and reflect on his own hardship, grappling with feelings of inequity. Yet within the presence of monks, the narrative diverges entirely. When he sees children of wealth and privilege donned in rags over those of beggars, he departs with consolation for his own position, and if a prosperous individual encounters the monks, they return with clearer perceptions of true worth.\\n\\nMoreover, in the theater, witnessing a harlot bedecked with golden ornaments, the poor are left despondent over their own spouses while the wealthy may come to disdain theirs. Ensnared by the seductive display, the audience departs, ignited with lustful desires, only to return home imprisoned by their own passions. Such scenarios give rise to offenses, disgrace, enmity, and daily crises; life becomes unbearable for the captivated, corrupting relationships with spouses and children, plunging the household into disorder, and making even sunlight feel burdensome. In striking contrast, the gatherings of monks foster none of this turmoil. The faithful find their loved ones welcoming, affectionate, and free from base desires, which in turn nurtures deeper connections than before. The theater breeds tremendous wickedness; the monastery, abundant goodness: one transforms sheep into wolves while the other converts wolves into gentle lambs. Thus far, we have not addressed the joys inherent in monastic life. What can surpass the bliss found in a soul untroubled, unperturbed, and free from lament?\\n\\nLet us continue our examination and compare the pleasures derived from various performances and spectacles, and we will observe that fleeting enjoyment gained at the theater dissipates by day’s end, often leaving behind discomfort far greater than any temporary delight. In contrast, the joy harvested in the monastery sustains a lasting presence in one's heart, lingering in memory alongside enchanting sights and the purity of their commitments to God, the fondness of a serene atmosphere, and the sweetness of harmonious liturgical singing. Consequently, those consistently nourished in such tranquility elevate themselves beyond worldly distractions as if seeking refuge from a tempest. Beyond their prayers and hymns, when the monks engage with sacred texts, they delight the soul. Post-hymn, one may delve into discussions with Isaiah, another may converse with the Apostles, while yet another meditates upon the treasures of other writings that reflect upon God and the nature of creation, both seen and unseen, contemplating the fleeting nature of earthly existence and the magnificence of eternal life. Their sustenance is the best; they feast not on mere flesh but on the Word of God, which is sweeter than honey and the dripping of the honeycomb (Psalm 18:11). This honey is more exquisite than that which John consumed in the wilderness. It is not derived from wild bees collecting nectar from blossoms, nor is it dew processed into hives. Instead, it is crafted by the grace of the Holy Spirit and poured into the souls of saints, where any yearning soul can taste its sweetness. Imitating the bees, they hover around the sacred texts, delighting in the sweetness of their truths.\\n\\nShould you wish to witness their nourishment, approach and perceive that all they share is imbued with joy, tenderness, and spiritual essence. Their lips cannot utter foul language or jest; each word is worthy of heaven. He who contrasts the speech of men entangled in earthly pursuits with that of monks will find a sharp distinction: the former akin to sewers of filth and the latter to springs of honey, pouring forth life-giving words. While this analogy may offend some, understand that I express myself gently; sacred Scripture boldly states, “There is no truth in their mouths; their heart is destruction, their throat is an open tomb” (Psalm 5:10). The mouths of monks, however, overflow with fragrant speech, befitting their present state! As for their future—what words might adequately convey that? What mind can fathom their angelic destiny, filled with ineffable joy and grace! \\n\\nIt is possible that many of you now feel a yearning to embrace such a noble life; yet, what good is it if this fervor within you fades upon departure from this place? How can we safeguard against such loss? While this fire still burns within, seek out those angels and allow that desire to intensify. The potency of my words may spark this flame, yet witnessing the reality matters more. Do not delay, saying you will attend to personal matters or finish your business. Such procrastination leads to carelessness. Recall the account of someone wishing to arrange household affairs, only to be prevented by the prophet (1 Kings 19:20). What do I suggest? Even a disciple asking to bury his father found Christ unyielding (Luke 9:60). What in your view could be more pressing than the burial of a parent? Yet, Christ did not permit it. Why is that? The adversary seeks every opportunity to disrupt our focus, and if he senses any relaxed commitment, he incites inertia. Thus, it is wise to consider the wisdom that warns against delaying action (Sirach 5:8). \\n\\nIn this manner, you will accomplish more and tend to your affairs with diligence. “But seek ye first,” it is stated, “the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” If we tend to our needs, how much more should we attend to those of God, who is ever mindful of us? Therefore, do not fret over your own matters but entrust them to God. If you care as a mere mortal, consider the divine perspective; God cares in a way that surpasses human understanding. Do not prioritize personal concerns at the expense of your spirituality; otherwise, God may become less attentive to them. For God to care more deeply about your affairs, surrender all to Him. When you prioritize worldly matters over spiritual pursuits, you diminish God’s involvement in those aspects. Therefore, to ensure well-being and freedom from burdens, cling to heavenly aspirations and disregard earthly distractions; you shall inherit the earth along with the heavens and partake in eternal rewards through the grace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory and power forever and ever. Amen."},{"author-name":"Augustine of Hippo","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88950a5c988a4fc06c7ae_Augustine%20of%20Hippo.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Christ has clearly demonstrated that we should not pursue worldly things as if they constitute our ultimate good or as if our actions gain merit solely for their sake, despite their necessity. The distinction between what is truly good and what we must accept as essential is illustrated in His directive, where He instructs, “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.” Thus, the kingdom of God and His righteousness are indeed our true good toward which we ought to aspire; this pursuit becomes the purpose behind all that we do. However, as we journey through this life striving to reach the kingdom, we cannot disregard the essential matters that accompany our efforts. Moreover, when Christ referred to what is prior, He suggested that our focus should not only be temporal but should prioritize what holds greater significance: that which constitutes our genuine good and what is necessary to attain that good."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The kingdom of God offers a glimpse of the blessings to come. It is provided for a life of virtue. Thus, anyone who pursues spiritual gifts will also receive physical blessings through God's bountiful grace."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Prioritizing spiritual needs over physical ones is essential. The kingdom of God refers to the experience of eternal blessings, and His righteousness signifies being justified by Him—meaning He alone grants us righteousness and embodies every virtue through which we are made righteous. If you inquire about what the soul requires, He promises to provide what the body needs as well. Previously, in His teaching on prayer, He instructed us to begin by addressing God as Our Father in heaven, declaring His name holy, asking for His kingdom to arrive, and for His will to be fulfilled on earth just as it is in heaven. Only after these requests did He lead us to ask: Give us this day our daily bread (Matthew 6:9-11). Our existence is not solely for the purpose of eating, drinking, and adorning ourselves; rather, it is to partake in eternal rewards after honoring God. Hence, we ought to seek these heavenly treasures earnestly. If we neglect this pursuit, we forfeit the blessings, while the necessities of life, regardless of our pursuit, will be provided for us, much like they are for those who do not believe. Thus, it is stated that these necessities shall be added to us. Our focus should not rest on the provisions for our bodies, which we shall receive even without striving, but rather on spiritual matters. However, if He supplies what is needed for our physical sustenance without our petition, why then did He instruct us to pray for our daily bread? This directive serves to remind us that it is He who sustains us, not our own worries. Acknowledging this truth draws us nearer to Him in thanksgiving."},{"author-name":"Nicephoros (Theotokis)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8958407451968d9c204fb_Nicephoros%20(Theotokis).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":18,"exegesis-text":"The concept of truth underpins every virtue. Our Savior remarked to His forerunner John, “It is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness” (Matt. 3:15), which encompasses every form of virtue. This understanding is further echoed in the statement, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matt. 5:6), and likewise, “Blessed are those who are cast out for the sake of righteousness” (Matt. 5:10). The term righteousness is thus interpreted as referring to every divine virtue, since God is the origin of all goodness, granting humanity the ability to embody it. Hence, contemplate the boundless nature of God's humanity. He who instructed us to “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness” should also have indicated, “But afterwards seek what you need”; however, He remained silent about this and added, “And all these things shall be added unto you.” If we earnestly seek God’s kingdom and desire to be filled with virtue, He promises to additionally provide for our needs—food, drink, clothing, and all essentials of life. Believer, He also tells you, “Seek the things of heaven, and I will give you the things of earth.” As an eternal being, do not waste your requests on trivial and temporary matters; seek My kingdom and pursue virtue, and I shall grant you all that is good in this world.\\n\\nConsider the Lord's command: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). This indicates that your primary and most essential focus should be on pursuing God’s Kingdom and enacting righteousness, which encompasses all virtues. When this becomes your utmost concern, you will not ignore God's commandments in the pursuit of wealth; you will not take advantage of orphans to expand your holdings; you will not mistreat widows to boost your harvest; and you will not harm your neighbors for personal gain. In adhering to righteousness, you will refrain from wrongdoing or sin for the sake of increasing your wealth. You will mindfully attend to the governance and well-being of your family and household, approaching your duties with sincerity and honesty, not through deceit or falsehood, and exercising measured and rational judgment, rather than foolishness, valuing eternal treasures over transient goods. When you engage in these virtuous practices, God will guide your efforts and bless your endeavors, granting you not only heavenly rewards but also earthly provisions: “And all these things shall be added to you.”"},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Prioritize the pursuit of God's Kingdom. Strive, nurture, and endeavor to discover the Kingdom of God before all other concerns related to physical or temporal needs. This quest is essential to becoming genuine members of Christ's Kingdom, a realm of true faith and hope, where the spiritual needs of humanity must take precedence. Additionally, seek His righteousness. This signifies the justification granted by God through the merits of the Savior, which is bestowed upon each individual within this Kingdom—righteousness in the eyes of God. Moreover, those who labor and pursue the Kingdom of God will receive additional rewards. These rewards will manifest both externally and sensibly, as the righteous may experience external blessings and, more importantly, internally, for those who earnestly seek God's Kingdom find complete fulfillment in their condition. In fact, what might seem like scarcity to others translates into true contentment for them."},{"author-name":"Philaret of Moscow (Drosdow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896ffb7a2ebaf99e46539_Philaret%20of%20Moscow%20(Drosdow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord provided the principle of perfect humility not as a strict commandment for all, but as guidance offered to those willing to pursue it: if you desire to be perfect, strive for perfection. Just as not everyone can be expected to attain perfection, advising all to renounce everything would be impractical. The natural course of earthly existence necessitates the involvement of individuals in worldly matters. If all farmers were to strictly adhere to the instruction to refrain from baking for the morrow, neglecting the care of both today and the coming year, and ceased their plowing and sowing, such an unbalanced approach to spirituality would ultimately disrupt life itself. Yet, since it is unavoidable that many remain engaged in temporal tasks, a crucial question arises: how can we ensure that earthly responsibilities do not obstruct spiritual endeavors? A more accessible and lenient resolution to this challenge is found in the Lord’s counsel: Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Prioritizing one aim indicates that pursuing other goals afterward is permissible. Thus, within the Lord’s message, two ideas emerge: the overt and the concealed. The overt message is that we are to earnestly seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness above all. The concealed message implies that it is permissible to pursue other interests afterward.\\n\\nFrom Christ’s words, we learn that it is indeed possible to successfully engage in the pursuit of heavenly matters while fulfilling necessary earthly duties without detracting from our spiritual work. This includes executing our obligations in society and exploring various fields of knowledge in nature and the arts. It is essential, however, that we do not allow these pursuits to immerse us in the distractions of worldly life but rather wisely use such knowledge to glorify our Father in heaven and assist His earthly children. The key to achieving unhindered success lies in what takes precedence in our pursuits—the matters we prioritize among our various endeavors. In the words of one early church father, it is about distinguishing between what constitutes our primary occupation and what is secondary. If seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness becomes your foremost aim, and if the endeavor of saving your soul through grace, faith, adherence to commandments, and the cultivation of virtue occupies a central place in your thoughts and aspirations; if you regard this pursuit as the ultimate cause while viewing earthly affairs as secondary and merely supplementary to your main goal, then such matters will not obstruct your spiritual journey. In doing so, you may confidently anticipate receiving the highly sought kingdom of God, and you will find that the necessities of earthly life will not be lacking, in accordance with the Lord’s faithful promise: All these things shall be added unto you.\\n\\nConversely, if you believe it essential to first secure your needs in worldly matters before attending to spiritual responsibilities, and if your thoughts are dominated by the pursuit of earthly knowledge, art, trade, and the pleasures of life, relegating spiritual practice to a mere secondary consideration, then you have inverted the order established by the Lord’s teaching. You will not be on the path to receive the kingdom of God, nor can you be assured of the security of your earthly possessions, for the Lord’s promise does not extend to you: All these things shall be added unto you."},{"author-name":"Ignatij (Briantchaninow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ce37597540c9caa5df5_Ignatij%20(Briantchaninow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"\\"Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you.\\" \\n\\nPrayer represents the supreme exercise of the intellect. It is the essence, the source, and the foundation of all virtues. Approach your prayers with wisdom. Do not request anything that is fleeting or frivolous, keeping in mind the command of the Savior: Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all your temporal needs will be provided for you."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord instructs us not to become overly preoccupied with the concerns that typically occupy human minds. Prioritize a singular focus—pursue one thing above all else: Seek ye first the KINGDOM OF GOD, so that you may rightfully be considered children of that Kingdom, obedient heirs of God's Church on earth, and inheritors of the heavenly Kingdom; additionally, strive for HIS TRUTH and righteousness before God, grounded in the merits of the Son of God. In doing so, all other needs will be fulfilled: And THESE ALL THINGS WILL BE ADDED UNTO YOU, almost as a divine extension of your pursuit of the Kingdom. God will not forsake you or overlook your needs; He will provide everything necessary, granting you the peace of Christ and spiritual joy. This way, your soul will be illuminated, your conscience will remain peaceful and clear, and your heart will be fulfilled, leading you to give thanks to God in all circumstances. However, the Lord emphasizes the importance of seeking the Kingdom of God first. St. Philaret observes that once you prioritize the Kingdom of God, it is permissible to also seek what is essential for daily life. Thus, the pursuit of God's Kingdom does not compel one to abandon the world; living and working within it is not forbidden. You do not commit a sin by preparing for tomorrow with what God has generously provided today; after all, He once commanded the gathering of the leftover fragments to ensure nothing was wasted. However, if the opportunity arises to assist those in need today with your surplus, do not hesitate—share generously and release your worries about tomorrow. Remember, only the righteous shall inherit the Kingdom of God; therefore, pursue the truths of this Kingdom, embody those truths in your actions, and eliminate all unrighteousness from your life. In doing so, you will find that everything else is abundantly provided for you. The Holy Fathers have described the quest for the Kingdom of God, along with striving to please God and secure the salvation of one’s soul, as the true labor; in contrast, earthly matters are regarded as mere distractions of lesser significance. As Chrysostom wisely states, you diminish your worth when you exhaust yourself with anxious thoughts over the fleeting benefits of this world. And you may wonder, why did Christ instruct us to petition for daily bread?"},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"What a profound expression of divine love is found in this commandment from the Savior, which He desires each of us to engrave in our hearts as the primary guidance for our Christian journey! Here we witness a loving Father who has bestowed upon His children the priceless gift of eternal blessings, guiding them on how and where to discover it. Our true treasure, dear friends, is the Kingdom of God, secured for us through the precious blood of Jesus Christ. But where is this treasure concealed? It is not distant; rather, it resides within each of us. The Savior states, \\"The Kingdom of God is within you\\" (Luke 17:21). Indeed, it dwells in the depths of our souls. Yet, due to our limited faith, the distractions of worldly concerns, our passions, and our transgressions, it remains so deeply hidden that it requires considerable effort and time to uncover and realize. The Savior instructs us: “Seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness\\"; for within the hearts of sincere believers, the Kingdom of God shines as a realm of truth and every Christian virtue, replacing the dark kingdom of unrighteousness and sinful desires that overshadow the hearts of those who are unfaithful and unrepentant. Therefore, prioritize seeking this holy and blessed Kingdom of God within you above all else. Strive to do so by casting out all vanity and futile earthly concerns from your hearts, akin to how treasure hunters discard soil in search of riches. Pursue a path of purification by eliminating all harmful passions, cleansing your soul and body from the stains of sin. The Lord, who gazes upon your efforts with compassion, will empower you with the strength of His Holy Spirit. As your heart is transformed by His grace, the radiant Kingdom of truth and all Christian virtues will be ushered into your innermost being. He will reign as the King of your entire heart. In such communion with the King of kings and the Source of all blessings, all that you require for your earthly journey will be generously provided. To aid us in our quest for the Kingdom of God, the compassionate love of the Savior offers us yet another paternal guidance."},{"author-name":"Seraphim (Tshitshagow)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c897954fad6e95cf44abbb_Seraphim%20(Tshitshagow).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Seeking the Kingdom of God does not mean withdrawing from the world completely or embracing a life of solitude. Such an expectation cannot come from the Lord, who admonished those who were called yet few were chosen. While distancing oneself from worldly distractions for the sake of one's salvation and devotion to God is acceptable, the pursuit of the Kingdom is of a different nature. This very renunciation can occur when one is divinely called, as it is a precious gift bestowed upon the chosen. An individual cannot renounce the world solely by their own will, as evidenced by the lives of the Apostles and the saints. St. Philaret of Moscow expresses that blessed is the one who receives this divine gift, accepts it with sincerity, safeguards it diligently, and actively employs it—such a gift is not given to everyone.\\n\\nThe pursuit of the Kingdom of God teaches us that earthly matters need not detract from our spiritual endeavors. Christ emphasized this by instructing us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, trusting that our earthly concerns will be addressed through God's grace as we show our love for Him and strive for our salvation by following the commandments of Christ. Therefore, seeking the Kingdom enables one to participate in worldly responsibilities without compromising their spiritual journey, fulfilling obligations in service, family, and the pursuit of knowledge, while also glorifying the Heavenly Father through work and acts of charity. The Christian way of life dictates that our focus on the soul and the promise of eternal life must take precedence over all earthly efforts.\\n\\nHow can one seek the Kingdom of God? It is not pursued through physical means, nor through worldly achievements, but through the spirit, heart, and mind, directed towards the divine; it is found in fervent prayer and heartfelt supplication at the feet of the Saviour, and in kneeling before the Blessed Mother of God. Our spiritual ascent need not conflict with family responsibilities, daily necessities, work, or academic pursuits. Yet for the heart to discern the path that leads to the gates of the Kingdom, it must be purified and untainted by passions, resembling those blessed in the Kingdom. Such a cleansed and sanctified heart becomes the habitation of the Holy Spirit; thus, Christ stated to the Pharisees: \\"Behold, the Kingdom of God is within you\\" (Luke 17:21). Therefore, seeking the Kingdom involves making our hearts a dwelling place for the Holy Spirit.\\n\\nWhat, then, is the essence of the Kingdom of God? It embodies truth in every aspect, at all times and in all places. Each word of the gospel carries profound truth, and yearning to internalize God's word is fundamentally to seek truth itself. When we commit ourselves to the truth for the sake of the Saviour, the eternal Truth, living by it, guiding our children in truth, and fostering genuine love supported by truth, while casting aside falsehoods and the illusions of worldly happiness, power, and wealth—these being mere vanities—then we can trust that God’s truth will reward us abundantly and affirm the words of Christ: \\"And all these things shall be added to you.\\" Hence, we must seek the Kingdom of God as Christ instructed! \\n\\nFirst, we should honor God, express our gratitude, and ask for His direction, and then concern ourselves with our desires and choices. We ought to nurture our hearts with an active and vibrant love for our Lord and neighbors, and in turn, earn their respect and become their leaders. We should first acknowledge our frailty, our tendency to stray from the commandments, and our struggles against our passions, and only then take on the role of judges and guardians of order. Believe, hope, and love first, and subsequently identify ourselves as true disciples of Christ. Amen."}]}
Support this project and get full access for only 4$/month
Commentarie text can’t be scrolled on PC at the moment. Please use your phone. We’re working on a fix.
