Matthew 13:44-46

Treasures of the Kingdom


Introduction:

The overview of the Kingdom parables in Matthew 13 is divided up with the first four parables. The Sower, The Weeds, The Mustard Seed and the Yeast were delivered by our Lord before the crowds.

The last three parables, The Treasure, The Pearl and the Net, along with the explanations of the Sower and Weeds were delivered by our Lord before the crowds. The last three parables, The Hidden Treasure, The Pearl and the Net, along with the explanations of the Sower and Weeds were delivered privately to His disciples.

The reason for the shift from public to private is evident from the context. It is the intent of Jesus teaching to prepare His disciples for future ministry.


  1. FINDING THE TREASURE – V.44, 45

    1. Misunderstanding of the Kingdom of God

      1. The cost involved in the Kingdom of God

      2. Who is the greatest in the Kingdom? Mark 10:35-45

    2. A Great Treasure:

      1. It’s worth everything in order to possess them

      2. A lifetime bargain


    1. Hidden Treasure

      1. Sinners saved by grace

      2. Stumbling on the treasure – Ill. (a Morgan engraved silver dollar)


    1. Two Senses in which the Kingdom of God is Hidden:

      1. The Kingdom of God in Old Testament times – Eph. 3:9

      2. The Kingdom of God in the lives of the Unconverted – I Cor.2:14 cf. II Cor. 4:4 (Religious Jews and Muslims)


    1. The Goodness of God

      1. Both parables emphasize the saving grace of Christ – Eph. 3:8; II Cor.5:17

      2. God Planned our Salvation – Rom.8:29,30; Phil. 3:14; Phil.3:4-9


  1. THE TREASURE’S WORTH – v.44,46

    1. Combine all their resources in order to posses the treasure

      1. Starting a business

      2. Note. the determination of faith –v.44,46


    1. A Theological Point:

      1. Salvation cannot be purchased or earned. – Eph.2:8

      2. Buying without money – Isaiah 55:1; Rev. 21:6-7; I Pet.1:18,19


    1. A Call to Action

      1. Moses chose to suffer reproach of Christ to be greater than the riches of Egypt. Heb. 11:25-26

      2. The reality of Hell – Matt.13:42

      3. For Believers, warning the wicked to flee the wrath to come – Matt. 3:7

      4. Edward Donnelly & Francis Schaeffer…


Conclusion:


  1. The world is not full of people looking to receive Christ through the gospel of grace. Our discovery of the hidden treasure and the precious pearl is the work of God’s grace in Christ.

  2. The Christian must continually seek the Kingdom of God. He or She must thirst after righteousness. Like the deer running in the woods he pants after the water brook. Psa. 40:1,2







































Pastor Nick Iamaio

Reformed Presbyterian Church

207 South First Street, Fulton, NY 13069

Web Site fultonrpc.org

8/24/08