The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price
Matthew 13:46
Intro
The kingdom of God can be described in two ways. It is the rule of God in the heart. It is moral, not nationalistic. It is spiritual, not material. It is actual, not ideal. But it is also the rule of God in the world. It is social, not individualistic. It is universal, not local. It awaits a final consummation and is not yet complete.
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I. The kingdom is spoken of as a hidden treasure, a pearl of great price.
a. Christian character satisfies deeper needs than anything else can.
b. The kingdom answers to humankind’s highest aspirations.
c. The kingdom is not only a treasure of infinitely finer quality but of longer duration.
II. Many look for a cheap and easy religion today.
a. We are bargain seekers
b. We are looking for instant gratification
c. Many want to use Christ as a convenience
III. The cost of the best.
a. The cost is all that a person has.
b. The kingdom must be first.
c. The kingdom deserves your best.
i. Time
ii. Talents
iii. Treasure
iv. Testimony
Closing
The Christian life is often difficult and painful; this cannot be denied. It is valuable, however, in many ways. A key value is the pearl of heaven, for which we can constantly give thanks. This gift or treasure from God, bought with Christ’s blood, gives us a more godly attitude toward perseverance in trials.
