Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Matthew 13:45-46 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.
HEAVENLY WISDOM PROPERLY VALUES HEAVENLY TREASURE (2)
In this parable a merchant is seeking treasure. His business was pearls and he came across one of "great price"--evidently one large enough or so perfectly shaped that it would be worth a tremendous amount of money. He valued it so much that he gave up all that he had in order to possess it.
What great spiritual wisdom is required to be able to see the true value of heavenly treasure! There is nothing on this earth that can measure up to what Christ gives to us in His death and resurrection. Who can put a price on the inheritance of heaven itself?
Many are searching for the answer to life's big questions. How am I saved? What is going to happen to me after I die? One dabbles in all sorts of religions trying to find the answer. He looks in the Koran, tries Hinduism, New Age mysticism, perhaps even trying atheism or looking to himself for salvation. He's desperate to find the answer but outside of Scripture he will find no true comfort. Only in the Scriptures can salvation be found because only the Bible speaks of Jesus Christ. There is no other way to eternal life. All other alleged pathways to heaven are dead ends. You may have heard people say, "We all want to get to the same place, but we take different paths." Yes, we all want to be in heaven, but outside of Jesus there is no path. By the power of the Spirit many searching have mercifully been led to Christ, and do have the knowledge that He is a priceless treasure.
When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of Glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride.
(The Lutheran Hymnal, 175:1)
Jesus by His death has saved us from eternal destruction, and nothing in our life has comparable value.
