Moment With The Master
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“A Pearl of Great Price”
Categories: Moment With The Master
"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking beautiful pearls, "who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. (Matthew 13:45-46)
The kingdom of heaven is like a business man seeking rare gems. One day he stumbles upon a stone of incomparable value. Although this gem is costly, this merchant, without regret sells out to purchase it. This new jewel is the most significant thing in his life. It is a source of great joy!
This precious gem represents the rule of God in the hearts of people. It is a stone unrivaled in beauty and value. Christ, the king possesses qualities of excellence like none other. He not only offers the advantage of future promises, but of present attractions. There is no joy on earth so pure and strong as that which springs from fellowship with God. This is the pearl of great price!
Jesus plainly stated that his kingdom was not like earthly kingdoms. (John 18:36) This kingdom does not come with observation, but rather lives and grows inside of human beings. (Luke 17:21) Among its citizens is a tax collector (Luke 5:27), a half-breed that had five husbands (John 4:1-29), and a thief (Luke 23:32-43) who graciously accepted God’s grace and forgiveness. Allegiance to the king would embolden some of his followers to die a martyr’s death just like the Savior.
Self-denial is a pre-requisite to citizenship in this kingdom. The merchant had to sell all he had acquired on this journey to buy this one pearl. The gospel is God’s free gift; however it is not cheap and does not exclude the necessity of sacrifice on our part. To obtain this precious pearl one must “sell out” and devote their life to this cause.
Sadly, many look upon this wonderful pearl with suspicion. They hesitate to part with anything earthly to obtain it. They may view it as only desirable for fanatics and emotional weaklings. However, the sacrifice to obtain it is man’s greatest investment and its end is inexpressible joy!
By George Slover
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