The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price

The Parable of the Pearl of Great Price (Mt 13:45-46)
Intro: The preciousness of pearls
The pearl was the most valuable gem of the ancient world, esp. a perfect pearl.

Exposition:
Reveals the 'mysteries of the kingdom of heaven' (v.11,35,52). Very similar to parable of hidden treasure; has the same point. Remember 'law of end stress.'

Doctrine: Though the surpassingly valuable treasure of the kingdom is now hidden, those who find it will joyfully give all they have to gain its riches for themselves.

1. To possess the kingdom costs us everything.
   Does God require payment for his kingdom? Is 55:1-3; Rev 22:17; Acts 8:20-21. God forbid! It's true that God requires nothing. But that's a long way from saying that it costs you nothing (Lk 14:33; Mt 19:29-30).
2. Buy, what we gain is worth infinitely more.
   See Mk 10:28-31.
   Truly, 'the worst things of Christ, His reproaches, His cross, are better than Egypt's treasures' (Samuel Rutherford, see Heb 11:24-26; Phil 3:7-8).

Conclusion: The kingdom brings the assurance of gain through every temporary loss.
'He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose' (Jim Elliot)
'Why do you spend money for what is not bread, and your wages for what does not satisfy?' (see Is 55:1-4)