Pearl of Great Price: Matthew 13:45-46
““45) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls, 46) and upon finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.” Matthew 13:45-46
Nothing compares to the kingdom of heaven and the gospel of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking fine pearls. Suddenly, he stumbles upon one of great value. What does he do?He goes and sells all that he has to purchase that one pearl.
I have been privileged to travel broadly and work with people from many countries, religions and philosophies. I have also studies comparative religion at Bible college and two secular universities. Let me share my spin on this short parable.
I confess bias, but in Jesus Christ I have found a pearl of incomparable value. Jesus is both my Savior and Lord and knowing Him is the only way to enter the kingdom of heaven. (See Acts 4:11-12). My relationship with Jesus Christ is by far my most precious value in this life.
If you are on a journey for truth, I encourage you to read and study the four gospels. Pay special attention to John 3:1-21. As the Holy Spirit reveals the simple gospel to you, you will discover this pearl of incomparable value. Nothing compares. I cannot take your journey for you, but I can place a map in your hand.
I constantly hear new stories of the spread of the gospel around the world. People are turning to Jesus Christ in unprecedented numbers from other religions and under repressive government regimes. In some places, people are coming to Jesus from dreams and visions. In other places, entire villages are turning to Him in response to the preaching of the gospel.
The mission force is quickly changing from the typical western missionary, to thousands of national church planters carrying the gospel to remote and unreached places. They are no longer carrying dysfunctional western Christianity. The stories remind me of the early church in the book of Acts.
It is such a joy filling a small role of equipping these amazing men and women who forsake all to carry the gospel into very difficult places. Why do they do it? In Jesus Christ they have found a pearl of surpassing value!
In 2023, we are gearing up to help train many of these men and women around the world. Doors are quickly opening in many places. Pray for wisdom, courage and provision as we purpose to walk through these doors.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
