Pearl of Great Price

Describe the events in the parable

A man is seeking goodly pearls. Then once he found one “special” pearl called, the Pearl of Great Price, he sold ALL the land that he had, and bought it.

What kind of person is Jesus describing in this parable?

A man that is seeking the word and kingdom of God. Once he realized how great of a possession it was, he knew he had to give everything he had, just to recieve this Pearl.

Does this parable suggest we can “buy” or “earn” our way into the kingdom of heaven? Explain.

Although the man bought the pearl, he still had a choice to make between keeping all the junk that he had or giving all the junk to God, so he can receive the kingdom of God. The parable can also translate to saying that when you are asking God for His Word, or wanting more and more of him, then what are you willing to give up, just so you enter into His kingdom happily and easily. I believe that this was more of a “reward” than just “buying” into heaven. Because you can’t really “buy” into heaven, cause the Bible say that you are saved through “FAITH” not “buying.”

Also in Acts 8:18-23, Simeon asks if he needs to give Peter silver just to recieve the Holy Ghost.

If salvation is a gift of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8-9), how is it that we “buy” the kingdom of heaven?

The New Testament provides us with four good examples of those who were looking (searching) for something of spiritual value. Describe how each fits in with this parable of Jesus.

The Ethiopian Eunuch (Acts 8:26-39)

He was wondering what it took to be baptized. Phillip told Eunuch that he needed to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Cornelius (Acts 10:1-8, 30-33)

He fasted, and prayed and prayed and prayed

Lydia (Acts 16:11-15)

She worshipped God, and she was baptized after she heard that Peter was coming.

The Bereans (Acts 17:10-11)

They were with all readiness of mind, and they searched the scriptures daily.