The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price Matthew 13:45-46

Introduction Similar to “The Hidden Treasure”Similar to “The Hidden Treasure” –Both speak of the value and preciousness of the Kingdom But there is a differenceBut there is a difference –The difference will be our focus in this lesson

The details of the parable A merchant is seeking beautiful pearlsA merchant is seeking beautiful pearls –He finds one pearl of great price –Undeterred by the price, he sells all he has to buy it

The meaning of the parable “Again” shows the connection with the previous parable (“The Hidden Treasure”)“Again” shows the connection with the previous parable (“The Hidden Treasure”) –Where one accidentally comes upon a hidden treasure –Still sees the value and acquires it This time, the merchant is seeking the object of valueThis time, the merchant is seeking the object of value –He knows there is something of value out there –Willing to give up everything if he can find it

The meaning of the parable Neither parable is suggesting the Kingdom is “for sale”Neither parable is suggesting the Kingdom is “for sale” –Salvation is the gift of God –Parable only expressing the idea we would be willing to give up all we have to be part of the kingdom

Biblical Examples The Ethiopian EunuchThe Ethiopian Eunuch –Acts 8:26-38 He was searchingHe was searching –Went to Jerusalem to worship –Was reading scripture –Was trying to understand the prophecy Considered it to be valuableConsidered it to be valuable –His immediate willingness to be baptized –His joy on being baptized

Biblical Examples CorneliusCornelius –Acts 10:1-8, He was searchingHe was searching –A devout man –His prayers and alms Considered salvation valuableConsidered salvation valuable –Immediately sent for Peter –Gathered others to hear –Immediately was baptized

Biblical Examples LydiaLydia –Acts 16:11-15 She was searchingShe was searching –Gathered on the riverbank She considered salvation valuableShe considered salvation valuable –Immediately she was baptized

Searching for the Pearl Are you still searching for the truth?Are you still searching for the truth? –Be like the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:27-28) Study the word of GodStudy the word of God Be willing to ask for help in understandingBe willing to ask for help in understanding –Be like the Bereans (Acts 17:10-11) Search the scriptures to make sure what you are taught is really God’s wordSearch the scriptures to make sure what you are taught is really God’s word –Be like those on Pentecost (Acts 2:40-42) Once you’ve found it, act upon the wordOnce you’ve found it, act upon the word

Conclusion Some may “stumble upon” the kingdomSome may “stumble upon” the kingdom –As in “The Hidden Treasure” Others are out there looking for the truthOthers are out there looking for the truth –All they need is to have the pearl offered to them Let’s make sure the kingdom is out there where it can be found by all, whether they are seeking it or notLet’s make sure the kingdom is out there where it can be found by all, whether they are seeking it or not