The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl

Everyday with God 
The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl
Matthew 13:44-46
‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy, went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.’
 
These parables were given by Jesus for his disciples, those people who believed Jesus and sought to follow him in their daily life (Matt. 13:36). Many times, we think that following Jesus means making sacrifices we don’t think are necessary or that we do not want to do. These parables help us see what motivates the willing obedience of disciples.
 
In the first parable, the man finds a treasure in a field; in the second, the man seeks the valuable pearl. Both of these parables make a similar point about the Kingdom of heaven-- the gospel of Jesus is the greatest treasure. Receiving it brings joy to the finder, but also calls for the valuing of this treasure above all others. The order is the same in both parables-- joy over receiving the gospel, and then the willingness to sell all their possessions. Their sacrifice was not out of obligation or done grudgingly, but one made out of joy! Our joy in Jesus produces the willingness to give everything we have to God--our talents, time, and resources. It should also impact how we live and respond to life’s challenges. Our joy should make it easier for us to obey Jesus when He asks us to deny ourselves, love our enemies, give to the poor, and love our neighbor. This joy in finding the greatest treasure, Jesus, results in radical life change, the kind of change that causes other people to wonder and ask questions.  
 
These two parables encourage me to think about my own life and relationship with Jesus. Does my greatest joy come from my relationship with Him or from my circumstances? What is my greatest treasure? My checkbook and calendar give me clues. What I sacrifice for says something about where my heart finds joy. Or have the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of riches, and desires for other things distracted me? I do not want to make the mistake of pursuing life, satisfaction, and temporary joy in some experience or accomplishment in this world. I want to live for Jesus and find my joy in Him.
 
Just for today –

  • Do you remember the joy you had when you became a believer in Jesus? Ask Jesus to restore in you the joy you had at salvation. (Psalm 51:12)
  • Consider your calendar and your checkbook. What do they reveal about what you treasure? (Matt 6:19-34)
  • How does Jesus want you to live for Him today?
Barry Brown | Executive Director