Central Truth

Both treasure and a pearl of great value picture salvation as something hidden from most people, but so VALUABLE that when they are discovered, people are willing to GIVE UP ALL they have to POSSESS them. Glory to GOD, our Father, for His great pearl of GRACE.

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Reflections

I am a girl of simplicity who loves a simple pair of pearl earrings. One of my favorite gifts is the pair I received from my grandmother in honor of my college graduation. Even though those earrings were special and brought joy to me, they don't even compare to the surpassing greatness of the TREASURE and JOY I have in finding the PEARL and the treasure in the field. How great to have a Savior who desires intimacy with me and craves my submission to relinquishing my life for Him.

As I study these parables, I ponder what I treasure most. The man in the parable joyfully went to sell everything because he found a treasure worth possessing that was more valuable than anything else he owned. God offers His kingdom as incomparable treasure at the affordable price of faith! We can't pay the price for the life God gives us. We can only exchange our life for the life He offers. The pearl of great price teaches us a similar lesson. Pearls in the ancient world came to represent the supremely valuable. Jesus even remarked that one should not cast pearls before swine. (Matthew 7:6) Why would a merchant sell everything for a peerless pearl? No doubt because he was attracted to what he thought was the greatest treasure he could possess.

Discovering God's kingdom is like stumbling across hidden treasure or finding the one pearl of great value. When we discover the kingdom of God, we receive the greatest possible treasure, our LORD. Giving up all that we have to obtain this incomparable treasure could mean many things. To me, it was moving to Dallas. Treasure has a special connection to my heart because it is what I delight in and desire. It refers to the kingdom of God in all its aspects. But in a special way, the Lord Himself is the treasure we seek. "Then the Almighty will be your gold and choice silver to you. For then you will delight in the Almighty . . . ." (Job 22:25-26a) May God be our only Treasure!

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Discussion Questions

1.The Lord's kingdom is priceless. How often do you think about the riches that you have in Christ? Do you live in such a way that you treasure what Christ has given you (salvation, forgiveness, love, joy, peace, virtue, goodness, glory, heaven, and eternal life)?

2. Psalm 119:162 (NLT) says, "I rejoice in your Word like one who discovers a great treasure." What attitude did the psalmist have towards God's Word? How precious is God's Word to you? What worldly things are distracting you from reflecting on God's WORD?

3. Jesus says in Matthew 16:24: "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me." What must a person do before he can follow Christ? What is God currently calling you to sacrifice in your LIFE? Do you share with nonbelievers about the cost of following Christ, as well as the great GAIN?

FAMILY DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. The gospel, Jesus and His gift of grace, is a treasure. Do you seek after this treasure with all your heart?

2. Are you willing to give up your things for Jesus?

3. Do you actively look for opportunities to share the treasure of Jesus with others?

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