Matthew 13:46
When he found one very precious pearl, he went away and sold all he had and bought it.
When he found
The phrase "when he found" indicates a moment of discovery, a pivotal point in the parable. The Greek word used here is "εὑρών" (heurón), which implies an active search or a diligent quest. This suggests that the kingdom of heaven, represented by the pearl, is not something stumbled upon by chance but is the result of a deliberate and earnest pursuit. Historically, pearls were highly valued in ancient cultures, often symbolizing wisdom and spiritual truth. The seeker in this parable represents those who earnestly seek the truth of God's kingdom.

one very precious pearl
The "one very precious pearl" signifies the unparalleled value of the kingdom of heaven. In Greek, "πολύτιμον" (polytimon) means exceedingly precious or of great worth. Pearls in the ancient world were rare and costly, often more valuable than gold. This imagery underscores the singular and supreme worth of the kingdom of God, which surpasses all earthly treasures. Theologically, this highlights the exclusivity and the ultimate fulfillment found in a relationship with God, which is worth more than any material possession.

he went away
The phrase "he went away" indicates a decisive action taken by the merchant. The Greek word "ἀπελθὼν" (apelthón) suggests a purposeful departure, a turning point where the merchant leaves behind his former pursuits. This reflects the transformative decision one makes when choosing to follow Christ, leaving behind old ways and priorities. It is a call to action, emphasizing the need for a conscious and deliberate choice in the pursuit of spiritual truth.

and sold all he had
"Sold all he had" illustrates the total commitment required to obtain the kingdom of heaven. The Greek "πώλησεν πάντα ὅσα εἶχεν" (pólesen panta hosa eichen) conveys the idea of relinquishing everything. This act of selling all signifies the surrender of worldly attachments and the willingness to sacrifice everything for the sake of gaining Christ. It is a powerful reminder of the cost of discipleship, where one must be willing to forsake all for the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus.

and bought it
The final phrase "and bought it" signifies the acquisition of the kingdom of heaven. The Greek "ἠγόρασεν" (egorasen) means to purchase or acquire. This transaction is not a literal purchase but symbolizes the acceptance and embrace of the kingdom through faith and commitment. It reflects the joy and fulfillment found in possessing the kingdom, which is freely given yet requires the surrender of self. This act of buying the pearl represents the believer's response to God's offer of salvation, where the true treasure is found in a life devoted to Christ.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Merchant
Represents a seeker of truth or the kingdom of heaven, diligently searching for something of great value.

2. Pearl
Symbolizes the kingdom of heaven, which is of incomparable worth.

3. Selling All
The act of giving up everything to obtain the kingdom, illustrating total commitment and sacrifice.

4. Buying the Pearl
Represents the decision to fully embrace and prioritize the kingdom of heaven above all else.
Teaching Points
The Value of the Kingdom
The kingdom of heaven is of supreme worth, surpassing all earthly possessions and desires.

Total Commitment
True discipleship requires a willingness to forsake all for the sake of Christ and His kingdom.

Discernment in Seeking
Like the merchant, believers are called to discern and pursue what is truly valuable in life.

Sacrificial Living
The Christian life involves sacrifices, but the eternal reward far outweighs any temporary loss.

Joyful Exchange
The decision to follow Christ and embrace His kingdom should be made with joy, recognizing the incomparable treasure we gain.
Bible Study Questions
1. What does the merchant's willingness to sell all he had teach us about the priorities we should have in our lives?

2. How can we identify the "pearls" in our own spiritual journey, and what steps can we take to pursue them wholeheartedly?

3. In what ways does the concept of "selling all" challenge our current lifestyle and commitments?

4. How does the parable of the pearl of great price relate to the teachings of Jesus on the cost of discipleship found in other parts of the New Testament?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to make a significant sacrifice for your faith. How did this experience deepen your understanding of the value of God's kingdom?
Connections to Other Scriptures
Matthew 6:33
This verse emphasizes seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, aligning with the merchant's prioritization of the pearl.

Philippians 3:7-8
Paul speaks of counting all things as loss for the sake of Christ, similar to the merchant selling all he had.

Proverbs 2:4-5
Encourages seeking wisdom and understanding as one would search for hidden treasures, paralleling the merchant's search for the pearl.

Luke 14:33
Jesus teaches about the cost of discipleship, which involves giving up everything, akin to the merchant's actions.

Revelation 21:21
Describes the New Jerusalem with gates made of pearls, symbolizing the ultimate value and beauty of God's kingdom.
Parables of the Hid Treasure and the Pearl of PriceMarcus Dods Matthew 13:44-46
The Chief GoodJ.A. Macdonald Matthew 13:44-46
A Great BargainC. H. Spurgeon.Matthew 13:45-46
Christ the Pearl of Great PricePulpit Helps., E. Scobell, M. A.Matthew 13:45-46
Goodly PearlsDr. Talmage.Matthew 13:45-46
He Bought ItB. Keach.Matthew 13:45-46
How Must the Pearl of Great Price be SoughtB. Keach.Matthew 13:45-46
I Shall Now Show You What May be Meant by Selling All He HadMatthew 13:45-46
One PearlR. Winterbotham, M. A.Matthew 13:45-46
Parable of the PearlAnon.Matthew 13:45-46
Pearls an AdornmentDr. Talmage.Matthew 13:45-46
Pearls DurableDr. Talmage.Matthew 13:45-46
Pearls ValuableMatthew 13:45-46
Persevere in Quest of PearlMorgan Dix, D. D.Matthew 13:45-46
Satisfied Only with the BestR. Tuck Matthew 13:45, 46
Sham PearlsDr. Talmage.Matthew 13:45-46
The ParableMatthew 13:45-46
The Parable of the Pearl of Great PriceB. Keach.Matthew 13:45-46
The Parable of the Pearl of Great PriceMatthew 13:45-46
The Parable of the Pearl of Great PriceB. Keach.Matthew 13:45-46
The PearlW. Arnot.Matthew 13:45-46
The Pearl of Great PriceW.F. Adeney Matthew 13:45, 46
The Pearl of Great PriceMorgan Dix, D. D.Matthew 13:45-46
The Pearl of Great PriceExpository OutlinesMatthew 13:45-46
The Pearl SeekerMorgan Dix, D. DMatthew 13:45-46
The Priceless PearlT. T. Eaton, D. D.Matthew 13:45-46
The Superlative Prize Going to the SeekerP.C. Barker Matthew 13:45, 46
What Shall We BuyRobert Macdonald.Matthew 13:45-46
People
Esaias, Isaiah, James, Jesus, Joseph, Joses, Judas, Mary, Simon
Places
Nazareth, Sea of Galilee
Topics
Across, Bought, Buys, Costly, Costs, Exchange, Finding, Finds, Goes, Jewel, Pearl, Price, Sold, Though, Value, Whatever
Dictionary of Bible Themes
Matthew 13:1-52

     2345   Christ, kingdom of

Matthew 13:31-52

     2357   Christ, parables

Matthew 13:36-50

     5438   parables

Matthew 13:44-46

     5242   buying and selling
     8813   riches, spiritual

Matthew 13:44-50

     2377   kingdom of God, entry into

Matthew 13:45-46

     4342   jewels

Library
Toleration
(Preached at Christ Church, Marylebone, 1867, for the Bishop of London's Fund.) MATTHEW xiii. 24-30. The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the household came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He
Charles Kingsley—Discipline and Other Sermons

'To Him that Hath Shall be Given'
'Whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.'-- MATT. xiii. 12. There are several instances in the Gospels of our Lord's repetition of sayings which seem to have been, if we may use the expression, favourites with Him; as, for instance, 'There are first which shall be last, and there are last which shall be first'; or, again, 'The servant is not greater than his master, nor the disciple than his lord.'
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Leaven
'The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and bid to three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.'--MATT. xiii. 33. How lovingly and meditatively Jesus looked upon homely life, knowing nothing of the differences, the vulgar differences, between the small and great! A poor woman, with her morsel of barm, kneading it up among three measures of meal, in some coarse earthenware pan, stands to Him as representing the whole process of His work in the world. Matthew brings
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Ears and no Ears
'Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.--MATT. xiii. 8. This saying was frequently on our Lord's lips, and that in very various connections. He sometimes, as in the instance before us, appended it to teaching which, from its parabolic form, required attention to disentangle the spiritual truth implied. He sometimes used it to commend some strange, new revolutionary teaching to men's investigation--as, for instance, after that great declaration of the nullity of ceremonial worship, how that nothing
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Seeing and Blind
'They seeing, see not.'--MATT. xiii, 13. This is true about all the senses of the word 'seeing'; there is not one man in ten thousand who sees the things before his eyes. Is not this the distinction, for instance, of the poet or painter, and man of science--just that they do see? How true is this about the eye of the mind, what a small number really understand what they know! But these illustrations are of less moment than the saddest example--religious indifference. I wish to speak about this now,
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Four Sowings and one Ripening
'The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. 2. And great multitudes were gathered together unto Him, so that He went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. 8. And He spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; 4. And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: 6. Some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Mingled in Growth, Separated in Maturity
'Another parable put He forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: 25. But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. 26. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. 27. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? 28. He said unto them, An enemy hath done this.
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

Treasure and Pearl
The kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. 45. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchantman, seeking goodly pearls: 46. Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.'--MATT. xiii. 44-46. In this couple of parables, which are twins, and must be taken together, our Lord utilises two very familiar facts
Alexander Maclaren—Expositions of Holy Scripture

On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xiii. 19, Etc. , Where the Lord Jesus Explaineth the Parables of the Sower.
1. Both yesterday and to-day ye have heard the parables of the sower, in the words of our Lord Jesus Christ. Do ye who were present yesterday, recollect to-day. Yesterday we read of that sower, who when he scattered seed, "some fell by the way side," [2507] which the birds picked up; "some in stony places," which dried up from the heat; "some among thorns, which were choked," and could not bring forth fruit; and "other some into good ground, and it brought forth fruit, a hundred, sixty, thirty fold."
Saint Augustine—sermons on selected lessons of the new testament

On the Words of the Gospel, Matt. xiii. 52, "Therefore Every Scribe who Hath Been Made a Disciple to the Kingdom of Heaven," Etc.
1. The lesson of the Gospel reminds me to seek out, and to explain to you, Beloved, as the Lord shall give me power, who is "that Scribe instructed in the kingdom of God, who is "like unto an householder bringing out of his treasure things new and old." [2524] For here the lesson ended. "What are the new and old things of an instructed Scribe?" Now it is well known who they were, whom the ancients, after the custom of our Scriptures, called Scribes, those, namely, who professed the knowledge of the
Saint Augustine—sermons on selected lessons of the new testament

Sown among Thorns
WHEN that which comes of his sowing is unfruitful, the sower's work is wasted: he has spent his strength for nothing. Without fruit the sower's work would even seem to be insane, for he takes good wheat, throws it away, and loses it in the ground. Preaching is the most idle of occupations if the Word is not adapted to enter the heart, and produce good results. O my hearers, if you are not converted, I waste time and energy in standing here! People might well think it madness that one whole day in
Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 34: 1888

The Parable of the Tares, by Bishop Latimer, Preached on the 7Th of February, 1553.
MATTHEW XIII.--The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: but while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way, &c. This is a parable or similitude wherein our Saviour compared the kingdom of God, that is, the preaching of his word, wherein consisteth the salvation of mankind, unto a husbandman who sowed good seed in his field. But before we come unto the matter, you shall first learn to understand what this word parable, which
John Knox—The Pulpit Of The Reformation, Nos. 1, 2 and 3.

A Man Reaps More than He Sows.
A MAN REAPS MORE THAN HE SOWS. "But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some a hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold."--Matt. xiii: 8. If I sow a bushel, I expect to reap ten or twenty bushels. I can sow in one day what will take ten men to reap. The Spaniards have this proverb: "Sow a thought and reap an act. Sow an act, and reap a habit. Sow a habit, and reap a character. Sow a character and reap a destiny." And it takes a longer time to reap than to sow. I have heard
Dwight L. Moody—Sowing and Reaping

The Christian Society
Scripture references: Matthew 13:31-33; 5:21-24; Mark 8:1-9; John 2:1-11; Luke 5:29; 14:13; 1 Peter 2:17; Galatians 6:9; Matthew 11:28-30; 12:50; Luke 15:5,6,8-10; John 17:11-15; Luke 5:29,30; Mark 1:28-33; Matthew 6:33; Luke 12:13-15. THE SOCIAL CIRCLE The Word Society is used to designate the set of people with whom we are on more intimate terms of acquaintanceship--whom we call friends--and those whom we do not know so well, and whom we call acquaintances. The term society may also have other
Henry T. Sell—Studies in the Life of the Christian

The First Great Group of Parables.
(Beside the Sea of Galilee.) Subdivision A. Introduction. ^A Matt. XIII. 1-3; ^B Mark IV. 1, 2; ^C Luke VIII. 4. ^a 1 On that day went Jesus out of the house [It is possible that Matthew here refers to the house mentioned at Mark iii. 19. If so, the events in Sections XLVIII.-LVI. all occurred on the same day. There are several indications in the gospel narratives that this is so], and sat by the sea side. ^b 1 And again he began again to teach by the sea side. [By the Sea of Galilee.] And there
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

Jesus visits Nazareth and is Rejected.
^A Matt. XIII. 54-58; ^B Mark VI. 1-6; ^C Luke IV. 16-31. ^b 1 And he went out from thence [from Capernaum] ; and he cometh { ^a And coming} ^b into his own country; and his disciples follow him. ^c 16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up [As to this city, see pages 14 and 55. As to the early years of Jesus at Nazareth, see page 60]: ^b 2 And when the sabbath was come ^c he entered, as his custom was, into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up to read. [This does not mean
J. W. McGarvey—The Four-Fold Gospel

New Teaching in Parables' - the Parables to the People by the Lake of Galilee, and those to the Disciples in Capernaum
We are once more with Jesus and His disciples by the Lake of Galilee. We love to think that it was in the early morning, when the light laid its golden shadows on the still waters, and the fresh air, untainted by man, was fragrant of earth's morning sacrifice, when no voice of human discord marred the restfulness of holy silence, nor broke the Psalm of Nature's praise. It was a spring morning too, and of such spring-time as only the East, and chiefly the Galilean Lake, knows - nor of mingled sunshine
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Second visit to Nazareth - the Mission of the Twelve.
It almost seems, as if the departure of Jesus from Capernaum marked a crisis in the history of that town. From henceforth it ceases to be the center of His activity, and is only occasionally, and in passing, visited. Indeed, the concentration and growing power of Pharisaic opposition, and the proximity of Herod's residence at Tiberias [3013] would have rendered a permanent stay there impossible at this stage in our Lord's history. Henceforth, His Life is, indeed, not purely missionary, but He has
Alfred Edersheim—The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah

Infancy and Youth of Jesus --His First Impressions.
Jesus was born at Nazareth,[1] a small town of Galilee, which before his time had no celebrity.[2] All his life he was designated by the name of "the Nazarene,"[3] and it is only by a rather embarrassed and round-about way,[4] that, in the legends respecting him, he is made to be born at Bethlehem. We shall see later[5] the motive for this supposition, and how it was the necessary consequence of the Messianic character attributed to Jesus.[6] The precise date of his birth is unknown. It took place
Ernest Renan—The Life of Jesus

The Leaven.
"Another parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened."--MATT. xiii. 33. In the mustard-seed we saw the kingdom growing great by its inherent vitality; in the leaven we see it growing great by a contagious influence. There, the increase was attained by development from within; here, by acquisitions from without. It is not that there are two distinct ways in which the Gospel may gain complete
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

The Hidden Treasure.
"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field."--MATT. xiii. 44. These two parables, the hidden treasure and the costly pearl, are even more closely allied to each other than the two which precede them. Generically they teach the same truth; but they teach it with distinct specific differences. It will be most convenient to notice in connection with the first,
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

The Lost Sheep, the Lost Coin, and the Prodigal Son.
LUKE xv. The three parables of this chapter, like the seven in Matt. xiii., constitute a connected series. As soon as we begin to look into their contents and relations, it becomes obvious that they have been arranged according to a logical scheme, and that the group so framed is not fragmentary but complete. We cannot indeed fully comprehend the reciprocal relations of all until we shall have examined in detail the actual contents of each; and yet, on the other hand, a preliminary survey of the
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

The Group in Matt. xiii.
"The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. And he spake many things unto them in parables."--MATT. xiii. 1-3. In Matthew's narrative, the first specimen of that peculiar pictorial method which characterized the teaching of our Lord, is not an isolated parable occurring in the midst of a miscellaneous discourse, but a group of seven presented
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

The Sower.
"The same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side. And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole multitude stood on the shore. And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; and when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up: some fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness
William Arnot—The Parables of Our Lord

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