1. The value of the kingdom (44-52)

Next, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a treasure so valuable that someone will sell all they have to obtain it. What if a jewel collector was willing to reduce his collection to just one pearl, because he found one that was so precious? That's how the value of the kingdom of heaven outweighs everything else. Like the merchant, we have great joy when we can set our heart on treasure in heaven. Jesus also hoped for his disciples to be teachers like him, who could give the treasures of God's kingdom to others.

2. A prophet without honor (53-58)

Sadly, not everyone valued the treasure Jesus wanted to give. When Jesus returned to his hometown to teach, the people had no ears to hear. They were offended when someone from their own town possessed so much wisdom. Jesus knew that people often fail to honor a prophet from their hometown. But we shouldn't let anything stop us from seeing the value of the kingdom of heaven.


Application: Heavenly Father, thank you for showing me true treasure in the kingdom of heaven. Help me to value it above everything.
One Word: A pearl of great value