THE TREASURE PRINCIPLE BY RANDY ALCORN

 

The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn begins with the parable of the hidden treasure to illustrate the joyful sacrifice of earthly possessions for eternal rewards. Chapter 2 emphasizes that Jesus frequently addressed finances in His teachings, linking our handling of money and possessions directly to our faith and spiritual condition. Chapter 3 explains that giving brings deep joy and fulfillment, aligning our hearts with God's purposes. Chapter 4 shows how focusing on eternal rewards motivates generosity by shifting our perspective from temporary earthly gains to lasting heavenly investments. Chapter 5 identifies obstacles to generous giving—greed, insecurity, pride, idolatry, and the illusion that Earth is our true home. Chapter 6 encourages joyful giving, beginning with systematic tithing of at least 10% of income as a foundational practice. Chapter 7 calls believers to recognize their sense of destiny in using resources for God's kingdom during their lifetime.

In Chapter 1, the author makes a surprising claim: 15 percent of everything Christ said relates to the topic of treasure—more than His teachings on heaven and hell combined. What’s even more striking is the reason Jesus emphasized money and possessions so much: there is a fundamental connection between our spiritual lives and how we think about and handle money. As I reflect on this, I realize that even the small amount of money I own and how I use it reveals the state of my spiritual life. My approach to money reflects the condition of my heart. These insights compel me to rethink how I budget each month and to turn to God’s Word for guidance.

On page 21, the author writes something that deeply resonates with me:
“When Jesus warns us not to store up treasure on Earth, it is not because wealth might be lost; it is because wealth will always be lost. Either it leaves us while we live, or we leave it when we die.” I often assume I can manage my money wisely enough to avoid loss. But Jesus says: you will lose it. The only question is when. This forces me to ask: What am I building my life on? What am I hoping will last? This quote is a powerful anchor. It is not just about money—it is about where my affections lie and what kind of legacy I am pursuing.

Chapter 2 deepens my understanding of treasures in heaven. Some people are so unwilling to give money to the church or help those in need that they struggle to accept Jesus’ teachings on financial giving. Yet Scripture is very clear: giving to the church, missions, and the needy is how we store up treasure in heaven. Whether that treasure is spiritual or material, the author affirms—based on the teachings of Jesus Christ—that there is treasure in heaven, and it is all about giving now and receiving eternal rewards later. This motivates me to invest my limited resources in missions, the church, and helping those in need, knowing that I am storing up treasure in heaven.

Chapter 3 is especially encouraging. The author’s integrity is admirable—he was arrested and jailed for advocating on behalf of unborn children scheduled to die. On page 32, he writes:
“I told the judge that I would pay anything I owed, but I could not hand over money to people who would use it to kill babies… I could not voluntarily pay money to a business that existed to kill children.” This statement challenges me not to compromise my convictions. It also teaches me to be discerning about where my money goes and how it is used.  And also, I am especially drawn to Treasure Principle #1: “God owns everything. I’m His money manager.” This principle is foundational—it reminds me to be intentional and wise in how I use money. A manager always seeks the best place to invest the owner’s resources. Likewise, I must steward God’s money with care and purpose.

In Chapter 4, I agree with the author’s view on rewards. Giving on earth with the hope of a great harvest in heaven is something Christians should embrace. I have also heard people say we should not desire rewards, but the author offers a striking counterpoint: “If it were wrong to want rewards, Christ would not offer rewards as motivation. Rewards are God’s idea, not ours.”
And Treasure Principle #2 also stands out to: “My heart always goes where I put God’s money.” He writes, “If I want my heart somewhere, all I need to do is put my money there.” This is undeniably true. It reminds me of a saying: “If you want someone to remember you always, borrow his money.” I believe that giving and investing in heaven helps me fix my heart on Christ and live a holy, acceptable life. In this sense, giving becomes a means of personal sanctification.

I also appreciate the author’s statement in Chapter 6: “Tithing is not the ceiling of giving; it is the floor. It is not the finish line of giving; it is the starting blocks.” Coming from a denomination where tithing is mandatory, this truth is a hard pill to swallow—but I must. My concern is not about tithing versus voluntary giving, but rather that in my church back home, tithing is treated as the finish line, not the starting point. Most of the people will not give more than 10 percent of their earning. And some will not even give a single penny to the church.

The term “Giving Warriors” and the question on page 80— “Should not people at every income level encourage one another to experience the joy of giving?”—prompt deep reflection. This phrase reminds me of my translation ministry days, when many people would go out and encourage others to give toward missions. Reading this book has deepened my appreciation for them. It is not easy. I now realize that I should not only be a giver but also encourage others to give for the sake of His Kingdom.

I wholeheartedly recommend The Treasure Principle to all Christians in my community, especially those from Baptist backgrounds. This book has deeply impacted me—so much so that I feel compelled to translate it into my mother tongue and make it accessible to others. Its message on joyful, eternal-minded giving is too valuable to keep to myself.