Jesus describes the kingdom in terms of three different items, all of which are strongly sought after for good reason.
Matthew 13:44-50
SERMON OUTLINE
The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.” (Matthew 13:44)
The Parable of the Treasure and the Pearl (Matthew 13:44-46)
- The kingdom of God is more valuable than anything else
- The disciples’ whole-hearted response to God’s kingdom will be evident to all
- Those who find the kingdom of God receive the gift now
The Parable of the Net (Matthew 13:47-50)
- The present reality: good and bad fish intermixing in the water
- The future gathering: gathering all kinds with God as judge
- The future destiny: the wicked cast away and the righteous kept
Bringing Out the Old and the New
- Jesus is the fulfillment of the law
- Disciples of Jesus are teachers of both old and new
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- When did you have to give up something you valued for a greater cause or in response to a need you encountered?
- This week we conclude our series, “Stories of the Kingdom,” by looking at three parables in Matthew 13:44-52. Begin your study in prayer by asking God to speak to you through His Word. Then, whether you’re on your own or with others, read the first part, 13:44-46 aloud.
- These first two parables, of the treasure and the pearl, are very similar one-point parables. How would you describe the point of these parables in your own words?
- What is the difference between the man finding treasure in the field and the merchant pursuing fine pearls? What might this tell us about how people encounter God and His kingdom?
- How have you experienced new joy in your life as part of God’s kingdom through Jesus Christ?
- Now read aloud the third parable in 13:47-50. In many ways this parable is like the parable of the wheat and the weeds (13:24-30, 36-43). What would you day is the main point of this parable?
- 7. Like the parable of the wheat and weeds, there is a present reality and a future destiny described in this parable. What is the present reality? What is the future destiny?
- What do you think it means to live now in light of the future destiny of human beings?
- Read aloud the final section, verses 51-52. These words seem to be spoken more directly to Jesus’ disciples. Considering Jesus’ teaching about the kingdom through parables here in Matthew 13 and His teaching on the law in Matthew 5:17-19, what do you think the significance of this passage is for us as His disciples?
- What is one thing God is speaking to you through this study? If you’re on your own, write that down, pray over it, and share it with someone this week. If you are with a small group, share your answers with one another before closing in prayer.
DIG DEEPER
- Journal about one of these three parables, expressing your thoughts about them, what God is teaching you through them, as well as your prayers to God about them.
- Draw, paint, or ink the parables as a way of reflecting on what Jesus is saying and praying about your own response to the Lord.
- Parables are stories that take everyday things and bring forth deeper, spiritual meanings. Consider how you would describe what God’s kingdom is all about through your own parable. Maybe you could tell it to someone else or write it down to share with others.
- Consider exploring more of Jesus’ parables by reading “All the Parables of Jesus” at the Jesus Film Project or reading Craig L. Blomberg’s book, Interpreting the Parables.