The Lord often taught in parables as one studies the gospels. In Matthew 13:44-46 we read, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.” These twin parables teach us great lessons about the kingdom of God.
The man who finds the hidden treasure, had stumbled upon this discovery of extreme wealth. Some folks, sort of stumble upon the great untold treasures and riches of Christ. No doubt many a people learned the truth of Christ not really actively searching for it, but when it was presented that they saw it’s value and accepted it. One does not have to be a rocket scientist to figure out that a box of gold and silver coins are valuable. Even so those who will, can see the spiritual valve of the blessings of the gospel, and will gladly accept it’s message joyfully.
And some people are like that man seeking the goodly pearls, and when they find that one exquisite pearl of great price, they will buy it. Even so, in the spiritual realm there are people that are searching for truth, for what is right. They will recognize the Lord as the most exquisite Saviour (in fact the only Saviour) man could ever need. They will gladly receive him and his word.
There is something also common between these two parables. Both these individuals had to sell all they had to gain their possession. Yes, we must be willing to “sell all” that we have to gain the kingdom of God. Nothing can be held back, all must laid at his feet, the Lord must come first, Mt.6:33; Gal.2:20; Lk.9:23.
~ Dan McKibben
